This is to Certify that
The President of the United States of America
Takes Pleasure in Presenting

THE NAVY CROSS
to

KABLER, WILLIAM LEVERETTECitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William Leverette Kabler, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of the Minesweeper U.S.S. HERON (AM-10), during operations in Dutch East
Indies on 31 December 1941. When the U.S. warship he commanded was attacked by
15 hostile planes of various types, Lieutenant Kabler fought his ship with
such skill that the crew was able to destroy one plane, damage others and
frustrate the attack. The conduct of Lieutenant Kabler throughout this action
reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 328 (July 1944)
Born: September 24, 1908 at Roanoke, Virginia
Home Town: Bristol, Virginia

KAELIN, JOSEPHCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Joseph Kaelin, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron NINE (VF-9), attached to the U.S.S.
YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of
Okinawa on 11 May 1945. Participating in combat air patrol in defense of our
occupation forces at Okinawa, Ensign Kaelin intercepted a numerically superior
force of hostile aircraft and, courageously engaging the enemy fighters, shot
down three, probably destroyed another and damaged two Japanese planes,
thereby completely disrupting the formation and eliminating a dangerous threat
to our forces. His skill as an airman and gallant fighting spirit reflect the
highest credit upon Ensign Kaelin and the United States Naval Service.

KAISER, JEROMESynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Jerome Kaiser, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN
(CVL-10), while participating in aerial combat against the Japanese Fleet in
the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20
June 1944. By his airmanship and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kaiser contributed materially to the infliction of
extensive and costly damage on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement
and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: December 11, 1918 at New York, New York
Home Town: Mount Vernon, New York

KALUS, DANIEL STEPHENCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Daniel Stephen Kalus, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron SEVEN (VB-7), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK
(CV-19), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces in Manila Bay,
Philippine Islands, on 29 October 1944. Skillfully maneuvering through a
deadly barrage of antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Kalus made a perilously
low-level attack on an enemy NACHI-class heavy cruiser. He made a devastating
hit on the warship which was subsequently sunk, thereby contributing to the
crippling of the enemy surface forces in Manila Bay. Lieutenant Kalus'
outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 344 (November 1945)
Born: September 22, 1917 at Cudahy, Wisconsin
Home Town: Cudahy, Wisconsin

KANAGA, FRANZ N.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Franz N. Kanaga, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over the Inland Sea of
Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.

KANE, JOSEPH LESTERCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Joseph Lester Kane, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Escort Carrier U.S.S. PETROF BAY (CVE-80), during action against enemy
Japanese forces near the Island of Leyte, Central Philippine Islands, during
the Battle of Leyte Gulf from 18 to 29 October 1944. As commanding officer of
an escort carrier, Captain Kane furnished air support to amphibious attack
groups landing on enemy-held shores. While his ship was under repeated air
attacks he maneuvered it skillfully, directing its air groups effectively
against an enemy fleet. His actions contributed directly to turning away the
Japanese forces from the battle. The exemplary conduct of Captain Kane on this
occasion gave great encouragement to the personnel of his ship and its
attached squadrons, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy
of the United States.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 340 (July 1945)
Born: August 19, 1902 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

KANE, WILLIAM RICHARDSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William Richard Kane, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Plane and Commander of Air Group 10 TEN (AG-10), embarked from the U.S.S.
ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action from 11 to 25 June 1944, while deployed over the
Marianas Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Born: June 4, 1911 at San Rafael, California
Home Town: San Rafael, California

KARCH, LLOYD ELWOODSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Lloyd Elwood Karch, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTEEN (VT-18),
embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action against enemy Japanese
forces in the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 24
October 1944. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.Born: December 11, 1921 at Columbus, Ohio

KARNES, AUSTIN C.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Austin C. Karnes, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron NINETY-FOUR (VT-94), embarked from the
U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure,
Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.

KARNOWSKI, LAWRENCE STEPHENCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Lawrence Stephen Karnowski, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as
Officer in Charge of Naval Combat Demolition Unit FORTY-FIVE (NCDU-45), during
the amphibious assault on the Normandy Coast of France on 6 June 1944. Ensign
Karnowski, although under heavy artillery and rifle fire succeeded in clearing
a fifty yard gap through the enemy beach obstacles. He exposed himself to
enemy fire to rescue a wounded member of his crew in danger of drowning in the
rising tide and time after time returned alone to place charges to widen the
gap when the rest of his crew had been killed or wounded. When tidal
conditions made further demolition impossible, he tended wounded along the
beach and assisted in the evacuation of casualties in the absence of
sufficient medical personnel. The conduct of Ensign Karnowski throughout this
action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 334 (January 1945)
Born: October 1, 1916 at Tampa, Kansas
Home Town: Lawrence, Kansas

*KARROL, JOSEPH JOHNSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Joseph John Karrol (2385511), Aviation Radioman First Class,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Rear Gunner of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting
Squadron FIVE (VS-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the
"Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June
1942. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring
and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.Born: May 5, 1915 at Minerville, New York
Home Town: Cambridge, Massachusetts

KATZ, AARONCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Aaron Katz, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S.
SARATOGA (CV-3), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon
Islands Campaign on 24 August 1942. In an unsupported aerial torpedo raid
against a Japanese task force, Ensign Katz pressed home his attack through a
bursting hail of fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries. He contributed to
the relentless fighting spirit and aggressive courage which enabled his
squadron to score one certain hit and two estimated hits on an enemy aircraft
carrier. His superb airmanship and unyielding devotion to duty aided greatly
in the defeat of a persistent foe and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: January 13, 1917 at Cleveland, Ohio
Home Town: Shaker Heights, Ohio

KATZ, BENJAMINCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Benjamin Katz, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Destroyer U.S.S. TAYLOR (DD-468), during operations in the Solomon Islands
Area on the night of 17 - 18 August 1943. When an enemy Japanese force of four
destroyers and a large number of landing barges endeavored under cover of
night to reinforce the enemy garrisons in the Vella Lavella-Kolombangara Area,
Lieutenant Commander Katz, with exceptional tactical skill under relentless
gun and torpedo fire, led the TAYLOR in a brilliant interception of the
hostile vessels. He fought his ship gallantly and contributed to the
destruction of two destroyers, severe damage to a third and the annihilation
of a number of landing barges. Having routed the enemy, he brought his vessel
through this vital engagement unscathed. The superb leadership and unflinching
courage displayed by Commander Katz and the loyal devotion to duty of his crew
reflect great credit upon the United Stats Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 332 (November 1944)
Born: April 11, 1904 at Kovno, Russia
Home Town: Cambridge, Massachusetts

KAUFFMAN, DRAPER LAURENCE(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Draper Laurence Kauffman, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for exceptional
courage, presence of mind, and devotion to duty and disregard for his personal
safety during the Japanese attack on the United States Pacific Fleet in Pearl
Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, 7 December 1941. Lieutenant Kauffman unloaded and
examined a live 500 pound Japanese bomb lying on the grounds of Fort
Schofield, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii. His courage, confidence and exceptional
skill made possible the recovery of all parts of this Japanese bomb for study
by the Bureau of Ordnance of the Navy Department. The conduct of Lieutenant
Kauffman throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: August 4, 1911 at San Diego, California
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KAUFFMAN, DRAPER LAURENCE(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Draper Laurence Kauffman,
Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished
service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of Underwater
Demolition Team FIVE (UDT-5), in action against the enemy on 14 June and 10
and 11 July 10 1944, at Saipan and Tinian in the Northern Marianas. On 14 June
Lieutenant Kauffman led his team in a daylight reconnaissance of fortified
enemy beaches under heavy fire. On 10 and 11 July he again led his team in a
daring night reconnaissance of the heavily-defended beaches at Tinian Island.
His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy
of the United States.Born: August 4, 1911 at San Diego, California
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KAY, FRANCISCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Francis Kay, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and bravery under
fire as Officer in Charge of the rescue party of the U.S.S. SKATE (SS-305), on
7 October 1943, while carrying out the hazardous mission of rescuing two
aviators who had been shot down near the shores of an enemy base during an
attack by our forces. Although under constant and accurate enemy fire, Ensign
Kay and his party remained on deck with utter disregard for their own safety
and successfully accomplished the rescue of two aviators who had been shot
down within 5000 yards of a strong enemy base. His conduct throughout was a
brilliant example of leadership and determination and was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the naval service.Born: October 29, 1916 at Yonkers, New York
Home Town: Redlands, California

KEATING, ROBERT A., JR.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert A. Keating, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BARBEL (SS-316), on the FIRST War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 15 July 1944 to 21 August 1944, in enemy
controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound
judgment Lieutenant Commander Keating brought his ship safely back to port.
His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: January 27, 1912 at Boston,
Massachusetts
Home Town: Wollaston, Massachusetts

*KEELY, WARREN LEESynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Warren Lee Keely, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWENTY-ONE
(VF-21), embarked from the U.S.S. BELLEAU WOOD (CVL-24), in action on 13
October 1944, while deployed in the Pacific War Area. His outstanding courage
and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: July 18, 1920 at Arcadia, Oklahoma
Home Town: Arcadia, Oklahoma

KEFAUVER, RUSSELL(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Russell Kefauver, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TAMBOR (SS-198), in action on 28 January
1944, during the NINTH War Patrol of that submarine in the East China Sea. His
conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: August 19, 1911 at Fort Riley, Kansas
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KEFAUVER, RUSSELL(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Russell Kefauver, Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SPRINGER
(SS-414), on a War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters in
1945. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Kefauver
brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an
inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Born: August 19, 1911 at Fort Riley, Kansas
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KEIGHLEY, WILLIAM HAROLDCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William Harold Keighley, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane in Composite Squadron THREE (VC-3),
embarked from the U.S.S. KALININ BAY (CVE-68), and deployed over Samar in
action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the
Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. When his task force was in imminent
danger of being destroyed by heavy gunfire from an overwhelming force of
hostile warships, Lieutenant Commander Keighley piloted one of the first
planes launched, immediately maneuvering to attack the leading heavy cruiser.
In bold defiance of the enemy's devastating antiaircraft fire, he scored three
direct hits. Promptly joining a group of fighting planes when his bomb load
was expended, Lieutenant Commander Keighley fought gallantly in the face of
terrific opposition, making four determined strafing runs which resulted in
considerable damage to the cruiser and effectively diverted hostile fire from
our bombers and Torpedo Planes. Lieutenant Commander Keighley's outstanding
courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 341 (August 1945)
Born: May 15, 1909 at Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Dallas, Texas

KEISER, NORMAN M.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Norman M. Keiser, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy
Patrol Plane in Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED EIGHTEEN (VP-118), in
action on 7 May 1945, while deployed over Korea. On that date while part of a
five-plane patrol over Korea, Lieutenant Keiser's crew sank a 4,000-ton
freighter despite fire from its two destroyer escorts. They then strafed a
second vessel, forcing it to beach ashore. Later, on the same patrol,
Lieutenant Keiser and his crew strafed and set on fire a third vessel. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KEITH, LEROY WILLIAM JAMESSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to LeRoy William James Keith, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY (VF-80),
embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action on 16 February 1945, while
deployed over Tokyo, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were
at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.Born: June 20, 1916 at Kansas City, Missouri
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

KEITHLY, ROGER MYERS(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Roger Myers Keithly, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of the U.S.S. TILEFISH (SS-307), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine
during the period 10 September 1944 to 24 October 1944, in enemy controlled
waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment
Commander Keithly brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout
was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: October 20, 1911 at Center, Missouri
Home Town: Bremerton, Washington
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KEITHLY, ROGER MYERS(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Roger Myers Keithly, Commander,
U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line
of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TILEFISH (SS-307), on
the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 15 November 1944 to
2 January 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through
his experience and sound judgment Commander Keithly brought his ship safely
back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and
men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Born: October 20, 1911 at Center, Missouri
Home Town: Bremerton, Washington
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KELLEY, CLARENCE H., JR.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Clarence H. Kelley, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 28 July 1945, while
deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were
at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.

KELLEY, WARREN PETERSONCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Warren Peterson Kelley, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15,
embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese
surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the
Philippine Islands on 24 October 1944. In the face of intense and accurate
antiaircraft fire from the whole enemy formation, under extremely hazardous
combat conditions, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kelley participated in a bombing
attack on a Japanese cruiser. Fearlessly maneuvering through withering hostile
fire of all calibers, he pressed home his attack and, by his expert
airmanship, obtained a direct hit which caused certain damage. Lieutenant,
Junior Grade, Kelley's outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.

KELLY, FONVILLECitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Fonville Kelly, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-FIVE (VT-85),
attached to the U.S.S. SHANGRI-LA (CV-38), during action against enemy
Japanese Fleet units at Kure, Japan, 28 July 1945. Despite intense and
accurate anti-aircraft fire from heavy combat ships and shore batteries,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kelly courageously pressed home a low-altitude
bombing attack and scored two direct hits with five hundred pound bombs on the
enemy battleship HARUNA, causing serious damage. His skillful airmanship,
intrepid spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KELLY, REEF P.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Reef P. Kelly, Aviation Ordnanceman Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Tail
Gunner of a Navy PBY Patrol Plane in a Patrol-Bombing Squadron in action on 11
August 1945, in the Pacific War Area. His outstanding courage and determined
skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.

KELLY, ROBERT BOLLINGCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Bolling Kelly, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession while Commanding Motor
Torpedo Boat THIRTY-FOUR (PT-34), on the night of 8 - 9 April 1942, while
operating in the waters of the Philippine Islands. While illuminated,
Lieutenant Kelly made joint attack with PT-41 on a Japanese Kuma class light
cruiser screened by four enemy destroyers, under extremely heavy shell fire
from her main and secondary batteries and closed to within 300 yards where he
struck her with two torpedoes in her engine rooms, which resulted in final
sinking. Again in the morning of 9 April 1942, when attacked by four enemy
dive bombers in a narrow channel of Cebu Harbor, Lieutenant Kelly though
having a hole blown in his boat six-feet across, and with three of his guns
out of action, skillfully maneuvered his boat and avoided direct hits on his
boat. He fought back with his remaining guns until five of his crew of six
were killed or wounded and then when all guns were out of action, he beached
his boat to save the wounded. He directed the removal of the wounded and dead
from his vessel under continual strafing from the enemy to a place of safety.
The exceptional bravery, aggressive leadership, and outstanding devotion to
duty displayed by Lieutenant Kelly were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Born: June 9, 1913 at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York
Awards: Navy Cross (WWII), Distinguished Service Cross (WWII)

*KELTCH, RUBINCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Rubin Keltch, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving
on board the River Gun Boat U.S.S. PLYMOUTH (PG-57), during and after the
sinking of that vessel through enemy action near Cape Henry, along the United
States' Atlantic coast, on 5 August 1943. When an enemy torpedo crashed into
the port side amidships and exploded, causing spreading fires, Ensign Keltch
unhesitatingly risked his life to assist several survivors to safety.
Proceeding to the engine room in search of others known to be trapped and
helpless, he entered the compartment and was himself trapped, thereby losing
his life. The conduct of Ensign Keltch throughout this action reflects great
credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 325 (April 1944)
Born: February 21, 1919 at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

KEMPER, GEORGE EMIL(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to George Emil Kemper, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane during action against enemy surface vessels
in the vicinity of Formosa on 12 October 1944. Despite extremely adverse
weather conditions, constant enemy fighter attacks and devastating
antiaircraft crossfire, Lieutenant Kemper brought his flight into position to
make bombing runs on well-selected targets of strategic importance, securing
four destructive hits. In a series of running engagements, the flight also
destroyed an enemy fighter plane and damaged others. When one of the planes of
his flight burst into flames and descended into the ocean, he immediately
turned back and made four attempts to effect rescue. Each time he was driven
off by enemy fighters, but in the meantime he succeeded in directing a rescue
part to the area. Lieutenant Kemper's outstanding courage, daring airmanship
and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 343 (October 1945)
Born: June 4, 1919 at Cortez, Colorado
Home Town: Cortez, Colorado
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KEMPER, GEORGE EMIL(Second Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to George Emil Kemper, Lieutenant,
U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane, in action on 26
October 1944, during the Air Battle for Leyte Gulf. Lieutenant Kemper led a
flight of planes in a torpedo attack without fighter escort on a heavy
cruiser. Despite a heavy concentration of antiaircraft fire and the speedy
maneuvering of the target, he not only scored a direct hit himself, but also
maneuvered the flight so that there were three hits out of seven torpedoes
launched, which resulted in the enemy ship's probable sinking. Lieutenant
Kemper's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 343 (October 1945)
Born: June 4, 1919 at Cortez, Colorado
Home Town: Cortez, Colorado
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KENDALL, JOHN G.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John G. Kendall, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of the U.S.S. LCL (L), TWO-HUNDRE TWELVE (LCL(L)-212), during an enemy air
raid on the Harbor of Palermo, Sicily, on 1 August 1943. When hostile bombs
straddled his ship and set fire to gasoline drums stored on the dock and to
ammunition loaded on a nearby merchant vessel, Lieutenant Kendall immediately
recognized the imminent threat to his own craft and three others moored
alongside and, directing the cutting of all lines to the blazing dock,
successfully got underway with the four ships. Supervising the operations with
cool efficiency, he skillfully maneuvered the group to a position of safety,
thereby saving all vessels from possible loss. The conduct of Lieutenant
Kendall throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 326 (May 1944)
Born: July 25, 1907 at Waco, Texas
Home Town: Pottstown, Pennsylvania

KENNARD, ROBERT ALDRICHSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Aldrich Kennard, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of Torpedo
Squadron TWENTY-ONE (VT-21), embarked from the U.S.S. BATAAN (CVL-29), in
action on 19 and 26 October 1944, while deployed over the Philippine Islands.
His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: June 25, 1915 at Minot, South Dakota
Home Town: Minot, South Dakota

*KENNEDY, JOSEPH P.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Joseph P. Kennedy, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Commander of a Navy Liberator Patrol Plane in Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED TEN
(VB-110), Special Air Unit ONE (Europe), during a special air mission directed
at Mimoyecques, France, on 12 August 1944. Well knowing the extreme dangers
involved and totally unconcerned for his own safety, Lieutenant Kennedy
unhesitatingly volunteered to conduct an exceptionally hazardous and special
operational mission. Intrepid and daring in his tactics and with unwavering
confidence in the vital importance of his task, he willingly risked his life
in the supreme measure of service, and, by his great personal valor and
fortitude in carrying out a perilous undertaking, sustained and enhanced the
finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: July 25, 1915 at Nantasket,
Massachusetts
Home Town: Hyannisport, Cape Cod, Massachusetts

*KENNEDY, LEO E.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Leo E. Kennedy, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Commander of a Navy PB4Y Patrol Plane in Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED
NINE (VPB-109), in action on 27 May 1945 off the coast of Korea. In 90 minutes
of furious combat Lieutenant Kennedy destroyed a 2,000 ton freighter and three
smaller freighters, seriously damaged three others and a large motor schooner
and later sank a destroyer. His outstanding courage and determined skill were
at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.

KENNEY, EDWARD CHRISTOPHERSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward Christopher Kenney, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for
distinguished service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage,
and disregard of personal danger while serving as a Medical Officer on board
the U.S.S. CALIFORNIA (CL-47), during action against enemy Japanese naval
forces off Savo Island during the Battle of Cape Esperance on the night of 11
- 12 October 1942. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to
duty, Lieutenant Commander Kenney saved many lives. His professional ability,
courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the
Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.Born: February 19, 1904 at Corning, Ohio
Home Town: Long Beach, California

KENTON, ROLAND H.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Roland H. Kenton, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SEVENTY-ONE (VF-71), embarked from the
U.S.S. WASP (CV-7), on 7 August 1942, and deployed over the Solomon Islands in
support of the landing of U.S. Marines on the islands. His outstanding courage
and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: October 28, 1918 at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

*KENYON, HENRY RUSSELL, JR. (MIA)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Henry Russell Kenyon, Jr. (0-098784), Ensign, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron
EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the "Air
Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Grimly
aware of the hazardous consequences of flying without fighter protection, and
with insufficient fuel to return to his carrier, Ensign Kenyon resolutely, and
with no thought of his own life, delivered an effective torpedo attack against
violent assaults of enemy Japanese aircraft fire. His courageous action,
carried out with a gallant spirit of self-sacrifice and a conscientious
devotion to the fulfillment of his mission, was a determining factor in the
defeat of the enemy forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Born: February 4, 1916 at Bronxville, New York
Home Town: Mount Vernon, New York

KENYON, KARL WALTONSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Karl Walton Kenyon, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Plane embarked from the U.S.S. SANGAMON (CVE-26), in
action on 24 October 1944, during the battle of Leyte Gulf in the Philippine
Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.Born: February 23, 1918 at San Diego,
California
Home Town: LaJolla, California

KEPFORD, IRA CASSIUS(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ira Cassius Kepford, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SEVENTEEN (VF-17), in action on 11 November
1943, while deployed over the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Home Town: Muskegon, Michigan
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KEPFORD, IRA CASSIUS(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Ira Cassius Kepford, Ensign, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting
Squadron SEVENTEEN (VF-17), in action on 29 January 1944, while deployed over
the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Home Town: Muskegon, Michigan
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KERNAN, ALVIN BARNARDSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Alvin Barnard Kernan, Aviation Ordnanceman First Class, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Gunner
of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron THREE (VT-3),
embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action on 26 November 1943,
while deployed over Tarawa in the Gilbert Islands. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: June 13, 1923 at Manchester, Georgia
Home Town: Saratoga, Wyoming

KERNODLE, MICHAEL HOLT(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Michael Holt Kernodle, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Air Officer aboard the
Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. WASP (CV-7), during operations at Guadalcanal in the
Solomon Islands during the landings of American forces on 7 and 8 August 1942.
Commander Kernodle's efficient and skillful direction of the air department of
the carrier U.S.S. WASP contributed not only to the defeat of hostile forces
during the initial landing in the area, but also to the success of long
sustained and arduous operations in support of the Tulagi-Guadalcanal
position. Commander Kernodle's conduct throughout was an inspiration to his
officers and men, and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval
Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: June 25, 1896 at Graham, North Carolina
Home Town: Graham, North Carolina
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KERNODLE, MICHAEL HOLT(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Michael Holt Kernodle, Commander,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of
his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. SAN
JACINTO (CVL-30), in action against the enemy from 22 March 1945 through 19
May 1945, in the Pacific War Area. His conduct throughout was in keeping with
the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.Born: June 25, 1896 at Graham, North Carolina
Home Town: Graham, North Carolina
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*KERR, ROBERT CHARLESCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Robert Charles Kerr (0-363685), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession while serving on board the Light Cruiser U.S.S. BIRMINGHAM (CL-62),
while participating in the salvage and rescue operations of the U.S.S.
PRINCETON in the face of enemy attack during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 24
October 1944. Ensign Kerr was seriously wounded when a terrific explosion in
the magazine section of the Princeton hurled him from his position on the
starboard catapult onto the steel hangar deck. The explosion killed or wounded
half of the BIRMINGHAM's crew. Ensign Kerr steadfastly refused medical
attention, insisting that others in the area be cared for first. Although
still conscious and suffering intense pain, he obtained materials for a
tourniquet and after applying it to his injured leg, injected himself and two
other casualties with morphine syrettes. Again refusing assistance, he
requested that the others be evacuated below decks and, remaining in the
danger area for more than an hour while his ship was under constant aerial
attack, bravely instructed others in the administration of first and comforted
the wounded and the dying. He succumbed to his wounds on the following day.
Ensign Kerr's outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 340 (July 1945)
Born: July 28, 1922 at Charleston, South Carolina
Home Town: Charleston, South Carolina

*KETZA, NORBERT FRANKSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Norbert Frank Ketza, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty
while serving as a Medical Corpsman on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S.
TICONDEROGA (CV-14), in action against enemy Japanese forces on 21 January
1945. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own
life, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Ketza undoubtedly saved many lives, and
his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for
his country.Born: November 15, 1925 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

KIBBE, RICHARD LUCIUSSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Richard Lucius Kibbe, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action on 24 and 25
October 1944, while deployed over the Philippine Islands. His outstanding
courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: November 17, 1911 at Sullivan, Illinois
Home Town: Orlando, Florida

KIECHLIN, ROBERT JEROMESynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Jerome Kiechlin, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession,
in action against the enemy while serving at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll,
Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. His great personal valor and unswerving
loyalty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Born: November 2, 1919 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

*KIEFER, DIXIESynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Dixie Kiefer, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Executive
Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against
enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Commander
Kiefer's conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
Navy of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Born: April 4, 1896 at Blackfoot, Idaho
Home Town: Los Angeles, California

KILAND, INGOLF N.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ingolf N. Kiland, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Task Unit
2.7.2 against Japanese aerial forces in the Solomon Islands area on 17
February 1943. When the task unit under his command was attacked by Japanese
Torpedo Planes, Captain Kiland maneuvered his unit with such outstanding
courage and tactical ability that he not only brought his forces through
without damage but successfully repelled the enemy attack. Captain Kiland's
inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command
contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital
missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 318 (September 1943)
Born: March 26, 1895 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Home Town: Arlington, Virginia

KILLIANY, JOHN J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John J. Killiany, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15),
embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese
surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the
Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Fearlessly pressing home a determined
attack in the face of extremely intense and accurate antiaircraft fire from
the formidable enemy disposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Killiany succeeded
in scoring a direct hit upon a Japanese battleship of the ISE class. By his
superb airmanship, exceptional courage and steadfast devotion to duty through
a perilous assignment, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Killiany contributed
materially to the sinking of this valuable enemy fighting unit and upheld the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: January 8, 1918 at Oliphant, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Oliphant, Pennsylvania

KILPATRICK, MACGREGORSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to MacGregor Kilpatrick, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in
action on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kobe, Japan. His outstanding
courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KIMBREL, ROBERT WALKERSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Walker Kimbrel, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN
(CVL-10), while participating in aerial combat against the Japanese Fleet in
the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20
June 1944. By his airmanship and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kimbrel contributed materially to the infliction of
extensive and costly damage on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement
and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: March 21, 1920 at Charlotte, North
Carolina
Home Town: Charlotte, North Carolina

*KINARD, LEON FREDERICKSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Leon Frederick Kinard, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron NINETEEN (VB-19)
embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major
Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in
the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air
opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile
anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. Ensign Kinard's
inspiring courage, daring tactics, and fearless devotion to duty in the face
of hazardous flying conditions reflected great credit upon himself and were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: August 10, 1923 at Moultrie, Georgia
Home Town: Lake City, Florida

KINASZCZUK, THOMASCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Thomas Kinaszczuk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Commander of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED
TWENTY-FIVE (VPB-123), in offensive action against an enemy submarine off Cape
Race, Newfoundland, on 27 April 1943. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Thomas
Kinaszczuk was on a convoy coverage flight when he sighted a surfaced enemy
submarine approaching the convoy on an intercepting course at high speed.
Immediately increasing speed, he began his approach for an immediate attack.
When the range had closed to about one and one half miles, the submarine
commenced a very accurate and heavy anti-aircraft fire which it maintained
throughout the attack. With complete disregard for the accuracy of the enemy's
fire and the damage which several hits caused to the plane's starboard wing
and aileron, the pilot pressed home his attack. Finally, from an altitude of
only twenty-five feet, he released his depth bombs. Of the four depth bombs
released, three were observed to have exploded beneath the submarine. Shortly
after the attack, the submarine broke surface at an extreme angle and soon
thereafter sank, stern first, in a nearly perpendicular attitude. His conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: October 21, 1920 at Elizabeth, New Jersey
Home Town: Elizabeth, New Jersey

KINCAID, ROBERT A.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert A. Kincaid, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting-Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO
(VFB-82), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), on 18 July 1945, while
deployed over Yokosuka, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill
were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.

KINCANNON, WILLIAM BRUCECitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William Bruce Kincannon, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a
Company Corpsman with the FIRST Marine Raider Battalion during an engagement
with enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 13
- 14 September 1942. When his company was almost completely surrounded by the
Japanese and under attack from all directions, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class
Kincannon, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, constantly
exposed himself to enemy fire to care for and evacuate the wounded. As a
result of his dauntless courage and outstanding devotion to duty, Pharmacist's
Mate Third Class Kincannon undoubtedly saved the lives of many of the injured
who otherwise might have perished. His courage and efforts in behalf of others
at great risk to his own life were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 312 (March 1943) & 318 (September 1943)
Born: June 25, 1921 at Ripley, California
Home Town: Riverside, California

KING, EMMETT THOMASSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Emmett Thomas King, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. SANTEE (CVE-29), in
action on 25 October 1944, while deployed over Samar during the Battle of
Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Lieutenant King's outstanding courage,
daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: May 5, 1909 at San Francisco, California
Home Town: Long Beach, California

KING, JOE WILEYCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Joe Wiley King, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron EIGHT (VB-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET
(CV-8), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese
forces on 6 June 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal safety and in
the face of intense antiaircraft fire, Ensign King participated in determined
and effective bombing and strafing attacks on fleeing enemy Japanese forces,
obtaining a successful hit on one of the enemy ships. His airmanship, courage
and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: February 9, 1917 at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

KING, SHANE HASTINGSSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Shane Hastings King, Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving
on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), in action against
the enemy on 11 May 1945, off Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.

KINNEY, SHELDON HOARDSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Sheldon Hoard Kinney, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Destroyer Escort U.S.S. BRONSTEIN (DE-189), in action against enemy forces
on 29 February and 1 March 1944, in the Atlantic. His conduct throughout was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

KINSELLA, WILLIAM T.(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William T. Kinsella, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of the U.S.S. RAY (SS-271), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 9 July 1944 to 31 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the
South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Kinsella
brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an
inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Born: May 21, 1913 at Wilkes-Barre,
Pennsylvania
Home Town: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KINSELLA, WILLIAM T.(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to William T. Kinsella, Commander,
U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line
of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RAY (SS-271), on the
SIXTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 23 September 1943 to 8
December 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his
experience and sound judgment Commander Kinsella brought his ship safely back
to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: May 21, 1913 at Wilkes-Barre,
Pennsylvania
Home Town: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KINTBERGER, LEON SAMUELCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Leon Samuel Kintberger, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Destroyer U.S.S. HOEL (DD-533), during action against enemy Japanese
forces near Samar in the Philippine Islands, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf
on 25 October 1944. Commander Kintberger directed his ship in a surface
engagement with a large task force of the Japanese Fleet, during the Battle of
Samar Island in Philippine waters. The enemy force was immensely superior in
number, firepower and armor, but Commander Kintberger twice brought his ship
within four thousand yards of the enemy to launch torpedo attacks on their
heavy ships, despite the fact that his ship was under constant fire. With an
outstanding display of seamanship, he again maneuvered within short range to
bring his surface guns to bear more effectively upon two heavy cruisers, and
the many crippling hits he scored helped materially to put these ships out of
action. By his actions he diverted enemy fire to himself from the lightly
armored carriers he was protecting. By his skill in combat and his dauntless
determination, he gave inspiration to his officers and men during a most
critical situation. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.Born: April 24, 1910 at Zanesville, Ohio
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

*KINZER, EDWARD BLAINCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Edward Blain Kinzer, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron FIVE (VS-5),
embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese
forces at Tulagi Harbor on 4 May 1942, and in the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7
and 8 May 1942. These attacks, vigorously and persistently pressed home in the
face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, and on 8 May opposed also by enemy fighters,
resulted in the sinking or damaging of at least eight enemy Japanese vessels
at Tulagi and the sinking of one carrier and the sinking or severe damaging of
another in the Coral Sea. Ensign Kinzer's conscientious devotion to duty and
gallant self-command against formidable odds were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 323 (February 1944)
Born: August 22, 1917 at Rock, West Virginia
Home Town: Beckley, West Virginia

KIRK, OLIVER G.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Oliver G. Kirk, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. S-42 (SS-153), in action on 11 May 1942,
during the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters of
the Southwest Pacific In a night submerged attack, Lieutenant Commander Kirk
fired four Mark-10 steam torpedoes at the OKINOSHIMA, obtaining hits on the
enemy vessel. Heavily damaged after six hours of depth charging, he made a
valiant withdrawal to save his ship. Lieutenant Commander Kirk's conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.Born: September 30, 1907 at Lima, Ohio
Home Town: Waterford, Connecticut

*KIRKHAM, CHARLES NOBLESynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Charles Noble Kirkham, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron
EIGHTY-FIVE (VF-85), embarked from the U.S.S. SHANGRI-LA (CV-38), in action on
2 June 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, Japan. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES C.(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles C. Kirkpatrick, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRITON (SS-201), on the THIRD War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 13 April 1942 through 14 June 1942, in enemy
controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Taking advantage of every favorable
attack with alert skill and courageous efficiency, in aggressive patrol
action, Lieutenant Commander Kirkpatrick succeeded in sinking a total of
22,593 tons of enemy merchant shipping and an enemy submarine. By expert
maneuvering Lieutenant Commander Kirkpatrick brought his boat safely through
without material damage and his crew home without injury or loss of life. His
conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 317 (August 1943)
Born: June 20, 1907 at San Angelo, Texas
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Distinguished Service Cross (WWII),
Silver Star (WWII), Legion of Merit w/V, Navy Commendation Medal, Purple Heart

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES C.(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Charles C. Kirkpatrick, Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRITON
(WW-201), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 25 June
1942 to 7 September 1942, in enemy controlled waters of Southwest Pacific. By
expert maneuvering he brought his boat safely through without material damage
and his crew home without injury or loss of life. Through his experience and
sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Kirkpatrick brought his ship safely back
to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: June 20, 1907 at San Angelo, Texas
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Distinguished Service Cross (WWII),
Silver Star (WWII), Legion of Merit w/V, Navy Commendation Medal, Purple Heart

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES C.(Third Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold
Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Charles C. Kirkpatrick,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. TRITON (WW-201), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 16 December 1942 to 26 January 1943, in enemy controlled waters of
the Pacific War Area. By expert maneuvering Lieutenant Commander Kirkpatrick
brought his boat safely through without material damage and his crew home
without injury or loss of life. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to
his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Born: June 20, 1907 at San Angelo, Texas
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Distinguished Service Cross (WWII),
Silver Star (WWII), Legion of Merit w/V, Navy Commendation Medal, Purple Heart

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES E.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles E. Kirkpatrick, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Retired), for extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving with a
special reconnaissance detachment in the Pacific War Area from 11 July 1944 to
28 August 1944. Lieutenant Kirkpatrick's conduct throughout was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.Born: January 11, 1909 at Hone Canyon,
California
Home Town: Newville, Pennsylvania

KIRKPATRICK, DONALD, JR.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Donald Kirkpatrick, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked
from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action against the enemy fleet in the
vicinity of the East Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. By his brilliant
airmanship, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty,
Lieutenant Kirkpatrick contributed materially to the success of our operations
in this historic engagement, and his great personal valor in the face of grave
peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Born: March 20, 1917 at Springfield, Ohio
Home Town: Evanston, Illinois

KIRKWOOD, PHILIP L.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Philip L. Kirkwood, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TEN (VF-10),
embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action on 16 April 1945, while
deployed over Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KIRN, LOUIS JOSEPHSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Louis Joseph Kirn, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane and Commanding Officer of Scouting Squadron
THREE (VS-3), embarked from the U.S.S. SARATOGA (CV-3), in action against the
enemy from 13 September 1942 to 5 October 1942, over Guadalcanal in the
Solomon Islands.Born: June 8, 1908 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Home Town: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

KIRWIN, JOHN HAWTHORNESynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Hawthorne Kirwin, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron NINE (VT-9),
embarked from the U.S.S. SHAMROCK BAY (CVE-84), in action on 7 April 1945,
while deployed over Kyushu, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined
skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.

*KIRWIN, JOHN J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to John J. Kirwin, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Turret
Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. SAVANNAH (CL-42), while that vessel was
stationed in the Gulf of Salerno supporting our landings during the amphibious
invasion of Italy on 11 September 1943. When the detonation of an enemy bomb
inflicted heavy casualties, set off numerous fires and filled the turret with
dense smoke and toxic gases, Lieutenant Kirwin promptly ordered the area
abandoned and, despite the imminent danger of magazine explosion, stood by his
station in the turret booth. With full knowledge of the serious hazards
involved and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he calmly
supervised evacuation and deliberately remained behind to aid in saving the
lives of as many of his command as possible when he might easily have escaped.
The conduct of Lieutenant Kirwin throughout this action reflects great credit
upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 325 (April 1944)
Born: July 4, 1918 at Newport, Rhode Island
Home Town: Newport, Rhode Island

KITTS, WILLARD A., IIICitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Willard A. Kitts, III, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. NORTHAMPTON (CA-26), during operations against enemy
Japanese forces in enemy-controlled waters during the Battle of Tassafaronga
on the night of 30 November 1942. Although a number of ships ahead were sunk
by hostile bombardment and others were left in flames, Captain Kitts
maneuvered his vessel and kept her fighting with all the weapons at his
command. When the Northampton was eventually torpedoed, he prevented her from
beaching on the enemy shore and thereby enabled the lives of a great many of
his crew to be saved. Although every possible effort was exerted to keep the
damaged vessel afloat, he was finally compelled to order the crews over the
side and, while following after they were all clear, was severely injured.
Captain Kitts' inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his
command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital
missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 316 (July 1943)
Born: April 14, 1894 at Oswego, New York
Home Town: Los Gatos, California

KLAKRING, THOMAS B.(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Thomas B. Klakring, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding
Officer of the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217), during the FIRST War Patrol of that
vessel in enemy controlled waters near Honshu, Japan, during the period 6
August 1942 to 15 September 1942. Despite strong enemy countermeasures and
unfavorable sea conditions, Lieutenant Commander Klakring took advantage of
every opportunity to strike the enemy and in a series of skillfully conducted
attacks succeeded in sinking an 8,215-ton Japanese auxiliary warship, a total
of 42,840 tons of Japanese merchant shipping, and damaged a 7,000-ton Japanese
freighter. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander
Klakring brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an
inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: December 19, 1904 at Annapolis, Maryland
Home Town: Annapolis, Maryland
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KLAKRING, THOMAS B.(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Thomas B. Klakring, Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GUARDFISH
(SS-217), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 30
September 1942 to 28 November 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the South
China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander
Klakring brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an
inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Born: December 19, 1904 at Annapolis, Maryland
Home Town: Annapolis, Maryland
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KLAKRING, THOMAS B.(Third Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold
Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Thomas B. Klakring,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine
during the period 2 January 1943 to 15 February 1943, in enemy controlled
waters of the Southwest Pacific. Through his experience and sound judgment
Lieutenant Commander Klakring brought his ship safely back to port. His
conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: December 19, 1904 at Annapolis, Maryland
Home Town: Annapolis, Maryland
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*KLEIN, MILLARD JEFFERSON (MIA)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Millard Jefferson Klein, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. BUCK (DD-420), during
an attack on an enemy submarine while on convoy escort off the Island of
Pantelleria in the Mediterranean Sea, on 3 August 1943. Contacting the hostile
vessel which was preparing to attack the convoy, Lieutenant Commander Klein
skillfully maneuvered for vigorous and aggressive action, depth charging the
submarine and forcing her to the surface where the guns of the BUCK completed
her destruction, resulting in the subsequent capture of prisoners. Lieutenant
Commander Klein's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his
command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of this vital
mission and reflects great credit upon the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 326 (May 1944)
Born: July 25, 1908 at Knoxville, Tennessee
Home Town: Roundhill, Virginia

*KLEINSMITH, CHARLES (MIA)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Charles Kleinsmith (02428775), Watertender First Class, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in while serving as a
member of the Boiler Crew of No. 1 Fireroom on board the Aircraft Carrier
U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the
Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. During an intense bombing attack the
explosion of an enemy bomb in the uptakes of the forward group of boilers
extinguished the fires in all boilers except No 1, and filled all boiler rooms
with heavy smoke and gasses. In spite of the heat, stifling fumes and the
imminence of explosion, Water Tender First Class Kleinsmith and a comrade,
with complete disregard for their own personal safety, assisted in keeping the
boiler under steam to keep the ship's auxiliary power in operation. Their
capable performance of this task helped to make it possible for the YORKTOWN
to attain the speed necessary for launching fighting planes in time to oppose
a Japanese aerial torpedo attack. The conduct of Watertender First Class
Kleinsmith throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: September 28, 1904 at Zionsville, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Long Beach, California

KLEISS, NORMAN JACKCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Norman Jack Kleiss, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron SIX (VS-6), embarked
from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of
Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Participating
in a devastating assault against a Japanese invasion fleet, Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, Kleiss, with fortitude and resolute devotion to duty, pressed home his
attacks in the face of a formidable barrage of anti-aircraft fire and fierce
fighter opposition. His gallant perseverance and utter disregard for his own
personal safety were important contributing factors to the success achieved by
our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service. Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: March 7, 1916 at Coffeyville, Kansas
Home Town: Coffeyville, Kansas

KLINGER, ROBERT LEECitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Lee Klinger, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SIX (VF-6), in action
over Kagoshima Bay, Island of Kyushu, Japan, on 29 March 1945. With
outstanding skill and courage Lieutenant Klinger led a four plane fighter
division on a rescue combat air patrol to protect the life of another pilot
forced down in Kagoshim Bay, Kyushu Japan and kept his division over the
downed the downed pilot for two hours in spite of enemy fighter plane
opposition, heavy anti-aircraft fire and the proximity of ten Japanese
airfields including a substantial Naval Air Base at Kanoya, only five miles
away. He led his division in an attack upon eight Japanese fighter planes, as
a result of which his division shot down a minimum of five enemy aircraft,
during the action, he shot down two enemy fighter planes which were making
runs on other planes of his division. As a result of his leadership and
heroism, five enemy planes were destroyed and a successful rescue effected of
the downed pilot from the inland waters of Japan. His shill and courage were
at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.

KLINGERMAN, RAYMOND F.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Raymond F. Klingerman, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 12 April 1945, while
deployed over Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KNAPP, PAUL JOSEPHSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Paul Joseph Knapp, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving
on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against the
enemy on 7 May 1942, during the Battle of the Coral Sea. His conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.Born: July 1, 1916 at Mason City, Iowa
Home Town: Mason City, Iowa

KNIGHT, FRANK LEROYCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frank LeRoy Knight, Torpedoman's Mate First Class, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the
Destroyer U.S.S. STACK (DD-406), on the occasion of a collision of that vessel
with a large aircraft carrier on 17 March 1942, when, as a result of the
collision, No. 1 fireroom of the stack was flooded, the lighting circuits put
out and the ship was heeled over at a dangerous angle and being carried across
the bow of the aircraft carrier. Despite the pending danger of the depth
charges being dislodged by further contact with the carrier, Knight made his
way aft in the darkened vessel and, wading waist deep, set all the depth
charges on safe. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.Born: February 4, 1908 at Savannah, Georgia
Home Town: Savannah, Georgia

KNISPEL, ARTHUR WILLIAMCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Arthur William Knispel, Torpedoman's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Member of a
party of nine men who boarded and captured the German Submarine U-505,on 4
June 1944, off Cape Blanco in French West Africa. When this party boarded the
submarine it was still underway and was running on the surface in a circle,
the crew having just been driven overboard by gunfire from the ships and
aircraft of Task Group 22.3. There was every reason to believe that there were
still enemy personnel below setting demolition charges and scuttling but
Torpedoman's Mate Third Class Knispel and two others plunged down the conning
tower hatch prepared to fight it out with any enemy personnel they found.
Then, although water was pouring into the U-boat and there was the strong
possibility that it would blow up or sink at any moment, he remained below and
assisted in salvaging the submarine and keeping it afloat so that eventually
the submarine was towed to Bermuda. Torpedoman's Mate Third Class Knispel's
conduct reflects great credit on the Naval Service and was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the U.S. Navy.Born: August 24, 1925 at Newark, New Jersey
Home Town: Newark, New Jersey

KNOBLES, WILLIAM M.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William M. Knobles, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron NINETY-FOUR (VB-94),
embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action on 28 July 1945, while
deployed over the Inland Sea of Japan. His outstanding courage and determined
skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.

KNOPH, ROBERT A.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert A. Knoph, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane, in action on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

*KNOX, LESLIE LOCKHART BRUCECitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Leslie Lockhart Bruce Knox, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron FORTY-TWO (VF-42),
embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese
forces in the Battle of the Coral Sea. On that evening, as one of the fighters
launched to oppose enemy Japanese aircraft in the vicinity of his ship, Ensign
Knox attacked a formation of seven enemy aircraft, shooting down one and
assisting in the action which resulted in dispersing the others. In this
engagement he displayed unusual skill and devotion to duty, carrying out his
mission with determination and aggressiveness against great enemy odds and
with complete disregard for his own personal safety. He failed to return from
this action. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.Born: November 7, 1916 at Brisbane, Australia
Home Town: Hillside, New Jersey

KOCH, WALTER MERKELSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Walter Merkel Koch, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16),
embarked from the U.S.S. RANDOLPH (CV-15), in action on 18 July 1945, while
deployed over Honshu, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were
at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.

KOCH, WESLEY ARTHURSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Wesley Arthur Koch, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S.
LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25
October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. His
courage, daring tactics and fearless devotion to duty were essential factors
in the success of our forces and reflect the highest credit upon Ensign Koch
and the United States Naval Service.Born: December 5, 1918 at Irvington, New
Jersey
Home Town: Hawthorne, New Jersey

KOEN, GEORGESynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to George Koen, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Plane, in action on 29 October 1944, while deployed over Manila Bay in the
Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Born: October 21, 1921 at Phillipsville,
Pennsylvania
Home Town: Jefferson, North Carolina

*KOLB, OTTO FERDINAND, JR. (MIA)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Otto Ferdinand Kolb, Jr. (0-077161), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession while serving on board the Dutch war ship H.M.S. De RUYTER, in
action against enemy Japanese forces from 1 January 1942 to 27 February 1942,
during the Battle of the Java Sea. The conduct of Lieutenant Kolb throughout
this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his
life for his country.Born: June 3, 1914 at Savannah, Georgia
Home Town: Savannah, Georgia

KONRAD, EDMOND G.(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edmond G. Konrad, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Plane and Commander of Air Group SEVENTEEN (AG-17), embarked from the U.S.S.
HORNET (CV-12), in action on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan.
His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: March 6, 1909 at Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Home Town: Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KONRAD, EDMOND G.(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Edmond G. Konrad, Commander, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving
as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane and Commander of Air Group SEVENTEEN
(AG-17), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action on 7 April 1945,
while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined
skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Born: March 6, 1909 at Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Home Town: Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KOPF, FRANK A.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frank A. Kopf, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KOSSLER, HERMAN J.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Herman J. Kossler, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CAVALLA (SS-244), on the FIRST War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 31 May 1944 to 3 August 1944, in enemy
controlled waters of the Philippine Sea. His conduct throughout was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.Born: December 8, 1911 at Portsmouth, Virginia
Home Town: Portsmouth, Virginia

KOSTER, HERBERT ANTHONYCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Herbert Anthony Koster, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWENTY (VB-20), embarked
from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during action against units of the Japanese
Fleet in waters west of the Central Philippine Islands during the Battle for
Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944. Flying as wingman on a search and attack
mission when an enemy task force was sighted and his division was assigned the
Japanese battleship MUSASHI as a target, Ensign Koster defied the withering
barrages of antiaircraft fire to dive low over the hostile warship and release
his bombs at perilously low altitude to score direct hits which started fires
and contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage on the
Japanese vessel. His superb airmanship, inspiring courage and unwavering
devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Ensign Koster and the United
States Naval Service.Born: June 12, 1924 at New Orleans, Louisiana
Home Town: New Orleans, Louisiana

KOVAR, ISADORE M.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Isadore M. Kovar, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while
Commanding Motor Torpedo Boat ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-SEVEN (PT-137), during action
against enemy Japanese forces off Panaon Island, Philippine Islands, during
the Battle of Surigao Strait, the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. On patrol at
Binit Point at the entrance to Surigao Strait when a strong Task Force of the
Japanese Fleet entered the Strait, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kovar boldly
approached the enemy destroyer "Abukuma," sighted visually and
proceeding southward at slow speed. Closing the range to 700 yards, he
launched a skillful torpedo attack and scored a hit which left the target
seriously crippled and an easy prey for our air forces to sink on the
following day. Immediately illuminated by hostile star shells, Lieutenant
Kovar commenced evasive withdrawal action and, by his expert conning of the
boat and his cool maneuvering in the face of grave danger, enabled the PT-137
to escape. The exceptional bravery, aggressive leadership, and outstanding
devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kovar were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KRAMER, IRVIN, JR.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Irvin Kramer, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19)
embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major
Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in
the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air
opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile
anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. By his superb
airmanship, daring combat tactics and courage maintained in the face of
tremendous opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kramer contributed materially
to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction on the Japanese Fleet in
this decisive battle, and his gallant devotion to duty throughout was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: February 17, 1922 at Woodland,
California
Home Town: Knights Landing, California

KRAPF, ARTHUR E.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Arthur E. Krapf, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. JACK (SS-259), on the FIFTH War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 4 June 1944 to 14 July 1944, in enemy
controlled waters off Manila in the Philippine Islands. Through his experience
and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Krapf brought his ship safely back to
port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: April 8, 1911 at Wilkes-Barre,
Pennsylvania
Home Town: Annapolis, Maryland

*KREAMER, WALTER HAINCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Walter Hain Kreamer, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of
his profession as Communications Officer on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S.
FRANKLIN (CV-13), which was striking the Japanese home islands in the vicinity
of Kobe, Japan, on 19 March 1945. When the FRANKLIN was struck by enemy bombs
which caused tremendous fires and explosions among a large number of fully
armed and fueled planes both on the flight deck and in the hangar, Lieutenant
Commander Kreamer established an emergency radio receiver and transmitter on
the flight deck when communications were completely disrupted. With great
courage, he personally operated the radio equipment and continued to transmit
and receive vital messages while exposed to flying fragments of exploding
bombs and rockets and enemy strafing. The conduct of Lieutenant Commander
Kreamer throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 341 (December 1945)
Home Town: Black Mountain, North Carolina

KREPSKI, THEODORE E.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Theodore E. Krepski, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving in charge of a
Rescue Boat from the Destroyer U.S.S. HAMMANN (DD-412), following the attack
on the U.S.S. LEXINGTON in the Coral Sea on 8 May 1942. Ensign Krepski
persistently returned to the burning U.S.S. LEXINGTON, and under a hail of
flaming debris from exploding bombs, ammunition, and gasoline, effected a
series of rescues as officer in charge of a boat detailed to rescue survivors.
He saved the lives of many who would have otherwise perished. His outstanding
courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 315 (June 1943)
Born: January 12, 1918 at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

KRESSE, WALTER A.F., JR.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Walter A.F. Kresse, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while
deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were
at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.

KROEGER, EDWIN JOHNCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edwin John Kroeger, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked
from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of
Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Defying
extreme danger from concentrated anti-aircraft barrage and powerful fighter
opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kroeger, with bold determination and
courageous zeal, participated in dive-bombing assaults against Japanese naval
units. Flying at a distance from his own forces which rendered return unlikely
because of probable fuel exhaustion, he pressed home his attacks with extreme
disregard for his own personal safety. His gallant intrepidity and loyal
devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of our forces and were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: October 29, 1913 at Akron, Ohio
Home Town: Akron, Ohio

KROEGER, FREDERICK EVERETTSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frederick Everett Kroeger, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY-THREE
(VT-23), embarked from the U.S.S. LANGLEY (CV-27), in action against enemy
Japanese forces near Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. His outstanding courage
and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KROUSE, MICHAEL HENRYCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Michael Henry Krouse, Lieutenant [then Ensign], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY (VT-20),
embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese
forces in the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25
October 1944. Undaunted by intense enemy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Krouse
pressed home vigorous attacks upon an enemy battleship to score a direct hit
upon the hostile vessel resulting in its severe damage. His courage, expert
airmanship and unwavering devotion to duty contributed to the success of his
squadron in fulfilling this dangerous mission and reflect the highest credit
upon himself and the United States Naval Service.Born: July 26, 1922 at Columbus Grove, Ohio
Home Town: Bowling Green, Ohio

KRUCK, WARRENCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Warren Kruck, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane in Composite Squadron TWENTY (VC-20), embarked from the U.S.S.
KADASHAN BAY (CVE-76), in action against enemy Japanese forces near Samar in
the Philippine Islands during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944.
When his escort carrier group was threatened with annihilation during the
Battle of Samar, Ensign Kruck skillfully and resolutely made an attack on an
enemy battleship, part of a greatly superior enemy force. He displayed utter
disregard for his own safety and was without assistance from other aircraft.
Although the concentrated fire of the enemy force seriously damaged his plane,
he persisted in his run and scored a hit, damaging the ship severely and
causing it to turn away from the escort carrier group. His courage,
aggressiveness, and cool disregard for danger were at all times in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 339 (June 1945)
Born: June 10, 1921 at Sioux City, Iowa
Home Town: Boone, Iowa

*KUDER, WILLIAM A.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William A. Kuder, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron SEVEN
(VB-7), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against enemy
Japanese forces in the Sulu Sea in the Philippine Islands, during the Battle
of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. A pilot of a carrier-based bombing plane,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kuder distinguished himself by sighting an enemy
heavy cruiser in the Sulu Sea and, in spite of intense enemy antiaircraft
fire, he pressed home his attack and scored a direct hit which inflicted
serious damage. His utter disregard of his own safety, his courage and skill
were in keeping with the traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 339 (June 1945)
Born: January 27, 1921 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Home Town: Virginia Beach, Virginia

KUHN, WILLIAM R.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William R. Kuhn, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VB-82),
embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action against Japanese forces
on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding
courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KUNKLE, ROBERT D.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert D. Kunkle, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Commander of a Navy Catalina Flying Boat while on patrol off the north coast
of New Britain on 28 March 1944. Locating two Japanese destroyers, Lieutenant,
Junior Grade, Kunkle immediately launched a vigorous attack at mast-head level
only to have the run go for naught when the bombs failed to release,
Undismayed, he wheeled about and pressed home a second attack, diving through
a withering sheet of antiaircraft fire from the two ships and from enemy shore
installations to score two probable hits on one of the destroyers. Lieutenant,
Junior Grade, Kunkel's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 337 (April 1945)
Born: November 2, 1918 at Peru, Indiana
Home Town: Dallas, Texas

*KYES, JAMES E. (MIA)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to James E. Kyes, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding
Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. LEARY (DD-158), during action against a
concentrated force of hostile submarines in the North Atlantic on the night of
23 December 1943. As Commander Kyes boldly maneuvered to close the range on
four of the hostile pack, the enemy struck, mortally damaging the Leary with
three torpedo hits and causing her to start sinking rapidly. After giving the
order to abandon ship, Commander Kyes coolly and courageously made a personal
inspection in order to assure himself that none of his men remained aboard.
Preparing to abandon the stricken vessel and observing one of his crew whose
lifejacket was torn and useless, Commander Kyes gallantly removed his own,
gave it to the man and then calmly went over the side. Commander Kyes'
inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command
contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital
missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 325 (April 1944)
Born: April 16, 1906 at Everett, Washington
Home Town: McMennville, Oregon

L

LAFFAN, JOHN JAMESSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John James Laffan, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Gunnery
Officer aboard the Light Cruiser U.S.S. BOISE (CL-47), during action against
enemy Japanese naval forces off Savo Island during the Battle of Cape
Esperance on the night of 11 - 12 October 1942. Lieutenant Commander Laffan's
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of
the United States.Born: April 24, 1902 at Irvington, New York
Home Town: Irvington, New York

LAHODNEY, WILLIAM J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William J. Lahodney, Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant], U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Commander of a Navy PBY Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron FIFTY-TWO (VP-52), in
action against Japanese forces seventy miles northeast of Rabaul, on 26
November 1943. Repeatedly attacking an enemy force consisting of a cruiser and
three destroyers at extremely close range and in the face of concentrated and
accurate heavy antiaircraft fire. Lieutenant Commander Lahodney scored hits
with a five-hundred-pound and a one-thousand-pound bomb, causing severe damage
to the Japanese cruiser. When his plane was struck by enemy antiaircraft fire
which made over one hundred holes in the aircraft, destroyed the radar,
severed several hull strength members and the rudder cables and threw the
plane out of control, he skillfully regained control of the aircraft and,
flying through darkness and stormy weather, over ocean and dangerous mountain
terrain for five hours, finally returned safe to base. Lieutenant Commander
Lahodney's expert airmanship, courage, aggressiveness and unwavering devotion
to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Born: October 8, 1920 at Bethlehem,
Pennsylvania
Home Town: Milton, Pennsylvania

LAMADE, JOHN D.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John D. Lamade, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane and Commanding Officer of Combat Air Group SEVEN (CAG-7),
embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against enemy Japanese
forces over Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October
1944. As leader of a carrier- based aircraft strike against the Japanese
Fleet, Commander Lamade organized and directed his forces in a manner
resulting in major damage to the enemy. After his own aircraft had been
seriously damaged, he courageously made an attack on an enemy battleship.
Commander Lamade's outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 339 (June 1945)
Born: April 2, 1910 at Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Williamsport, Pennsylvania

*LAMB, WILLIAM E.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William E. Lamb, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWENTY-SEVEN (VF-27),
embarked from the U.S.S. PRINCETON (CVL-23), in action on 19 July 1944, while
deployed over the Marianas Islands. His outstanding courage and determined
skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Born: September 6, 1916 at St. Louis, Missouri
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

*LAMBERSON, WILLIAM LACEYSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William Lacey Lamberson, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron THREE (VF-3),
embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action on 12 January 1945, while
deployed over French Indochina. His outstanding courage and determined skill
were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.Born: October 30, 1916 at Oskaloosa, Iowa
Home Town: Oskaloosa, Iowa

LAMBERT, VALDEMAR GREENECitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Valdemar Greene Lambert, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Squadron Commander of Torpedo Squadron
FIFTEEN (VT-15), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against
enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte
Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. In the face of intense and
accurate enemy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Commander Lambert skillfully
deployed his forces in a coordinated, vigorous attack during which he scored a
torpedo hit on an enemy carrier and inflicted maximum damage to the enemy
fleet without loss to his own force. Undaunted in the face of relentless,
devastating antiaircraft fire, he rendered gallant service during the bitterly
fought engagement in which all carriers, a light cruiser and a destroyer of
the enemy's task force were sunk and heavy bomb and torpedo damage inflicted
on battleships and other important naval units. By his daring airmanship,
exceptional courage and steadfast devotion to duty through a perilous
assignment, Lieutenant Commander Lambert contributed materially to the sinking
of this valuable enemy fighting unit and upheld the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: April 5, 1915 at Fullerton, Louisiana
Home Town: Jennings, Louisiana

LAMPMAN, LELAND R.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Leland R. Lampman, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Destroyer U.S.S. THATCHER (DD-514), during an engagement with Japanese
naval forces at Empress Augusta Bay, off Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on the
night of 1 - 2 November 1943. With his Task Force engaging a Japanese surface
force of superior fire power, Commander Lampman sought out and engaged six
Japanese warships, pressing home vigorous and unrelenting attacks. He hurled
the full fighting strength of his ship against the enemy and, by his inspiring
leadership and skilled combat tactics, evoked the indomitable fighting spirit
which enabled his officers and men to contribute materially to the sinking of
four ships and the serious damaging of two others, thereby aiding in the
establishment of our beachhead on Bougainville Island. Commander Lampman's
inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command
contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital
missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.

*LANDES, ROBERT JELLISONSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Robert Jellison Landes, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while
serving on board the Destroyer U.S.S. REID (DD-369), in action against the
enemy on 11 December 1944, in the Mindanao Sea in the Philippine Islands. His
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of
the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Born: January 28, 1922 at Salt Lake City, Utah
Home Town: Salt Lake City, Utah

LANE, CHARLES SMITHCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles Smith Lane, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron THREE (VB-3), embarked from the U.S.S.
YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy
Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Ensign Lane took part in dive-bombing
attacks against Japanese naval forces in the Battle of Midway. Disregarding
the extreme danger from intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy fighter
opposition, he, vigorously and with heroic determination, pressed home his
attacks against the Japanese invasion fleet thereby contributing in great
measure to the glorious and decisive victory of our forces. His outstanding
courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: February 21, 1917 at Reidsville, North
Carolina
Home Town: Leaksville, North Carolina

LANG, JAMES P.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James P. Lang, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action on 28 July
1945, while deployed over Kure Harbor, Japan. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LANGDON, NED W.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ned W. Langdon, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SEVENTEEN (VF-17), embarked from the U.S.S.
HORNET (CV-12), in action on 6 April 1945, while deployed over Okinawa in the
Ryukyu Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.

LANGDON, RICHARD H.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Richard H. Langdon, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-THREE (VF-83), embarked from the
U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over Kyushu,
Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.

LANGRALL, JAMES HARKERSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James Harker Langrall, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19)
embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major
Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in
the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air
opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile
anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. By his superb
airmanship, daring combat tactics and courage maintained in the face of
tremendous opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Langrall contributed
materially to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction on the
Japanese Fleet in this decisive battle, and his gallant devotion to duty
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.Born: November 26, 1921 at Baltimore, Maryland
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

LANING, CALEB B.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Caleb B. Laning, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Destroyer U.S.S. HUTCHINS (DD-476), in action against enemy Japanese
forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine
Islands on the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. This successful attack
contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous threat
to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Commander Laning's high
professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: March 27, 1906 at Kansas City, Missouri
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

LAPE, EUGENE J.R.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Eugene J.R. Lape, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Plane in Combat Air Group EIGHTY-TWO (CAG-82), embarked
from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action on 19 March 1945, while deployed
over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.

*LARKIN, EDWARD WILLIAM, JR. (MIA)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Edward William Larkin, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron THIRTEEN
(VT-13), embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy
Japanese forces in the Manila Bay area on 19 October 1944. Lieutenant Larkin
boldly led a flight of three bombers without fighter support in an attack on a
large enemy tanker. He plunged through a formidable curtain of merciless fire
to press home brilliant strikes, scoring a direct hit and two near misses,
which resulted in the sinking of the enemy ship. Superb in combat and fighting
with indomitable courage throughout this and numerous other missions,
Lieutenant Larkin inspired his squadron mates with his high standards of
aerial achievement. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 343 (October 1945)
Born: September 2, 1919 at Springfield, Massachusetts
Home Town: Springfield, Massachusetts

LAROE, EDWARD TERHUNESynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward Terhune Laroe, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-EIGHT (VB-88), in
action against the Japanese on 18 and 28 July 1945. His outstanding courage
and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LARSEN, HAROLD H.(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harold H. Larsen, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8),
embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-3), in action on 24 August, while deployed
over the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at
all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Born: August 11, 1911 at Omaha, Nebraska
Home Town: Collingswood, New Jersey
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LARSEN, HAROLD H.(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Harold H. Larsen, Lieutenant, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving
as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of
Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-3), in
action on 16 September, while deployed over the Solomon Islands. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: August 11, 1911 at Omaha, Nebraska
Home Town: Collingswood, New Jersey
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LARSEN, LEIF WALTHERSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Leif Walther Larsen, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Plane embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy
Japanese forces at Tulagi Harbor on 4 May 1942, and in the Battle of the Coral
Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. Ensign Larsen's outstanding courage, daring
airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.Born: November 11, 1917 at Capital, Montana
Home Town: Deadwood, South Dakota

LARSEN, ORRIN K.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Orrin K. Larsen, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while
deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were
at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.

LARSON, NILS RODNEYCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Nils Rodney Larson, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of an airplane, and for
extraordinary courage and disregard of his own safety during the attack on the
Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, by Japanese forces on 7 December
1941. Although contact with the enemy meant almost certain destruction and
despite the lack of any armament in this type plane, Ensign Larson voluntarily
piloted a JRS amphibian plane, equipped with only Springfield rifles, in
search for and to obtain information of the enemy forces. Ensign Larson's
outstanding courage, daring airmanship and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.Born: December 13, 1918 at Worcester,
Massachusetts
Home Town: Providence, Rhode Island

LATHAM, RICHARD CLARKSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Richard Clark Latham, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of the U.S.S. TINOSA (SS-238), on the ELEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine
during the period 29 May 1945 to 4 July 1945, in enemy controlled waters in
the Sea of Japan. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Latham
brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an
inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.

*LATTA, FRANK DEVERECitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Frank DeVere Latta, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. NARWAHL (SS-167), on SIX successive War
Patrols of that submarine during the period 30 April 1943 to 7 February 1944,
in enemy controlled waters of Pacific War Zone. Applying himself with keen
foresight and unwavering attention to detail, Commander Latta assisted
materially in planning a series of extremely hazardous missions and later
carried out each difficult assignment with outstanding success. During these
patrols, he maneuvered his vessel for maximum striking power and succeeded in
sinking an important amount of vital hostile shipping. His conduct throughout
was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 337 (April 1945)
Born: January 10, 1909 at Indianapolis, Indiana
Home Town: Burlington, Iowa

LATTIN, JACK MALCOLMSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Jack Malcolm Lattin, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-ONE (VF-81), embarked from the
U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), in action on 17 February 1945, while deployed over Tokyo
Bay, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.Born: May 4, 1921 at Biggar, Saskatchewan,
Canada
Home Town: Seattle, Washington

LAUB, ROBERT EDWARDCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Edward Laub, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron SIX (VT-6), embarked from
the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway,"
against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Participating in a vigorous and
intensive assault against the Japanese invasion fleet, Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, Laub pressed home his attack with relentless determination in the face
of a terrific barrage of anti-aircraft fire. The unprecedented conditions
under which his squadron launched its offensive were so exceptional that it is
highly improbably the occasion may ever recur where other pilots of the
service will be called upon to demonstrate an equal degree of gallantry and
fortitude. His extreme disregard of personal safety contributed materially to
the success of our forces and his loyal conduct was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 308 (November 1942)
Born: August 4, 1917 at Pittsburg, Kansas
Home Town: Stoutland, Missouri

LAUGHON, WILLARD R.(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Willard R. Laughon, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RASHER (SS-269), on the THIRD War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 19 February 1944 to 4 April 1944, in the
Celebes. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander
Laughon brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an
inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Born: January 29, 1911 at Princeton, West
Virginia
Home Town: Long Beach, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LAUGHON, WILLARD R.(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Willard R. Laughon, Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RASHER
(SS-269), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 30
April 1944 to 23 June 1944, in enemy controlled waters in the Celebes. Through
his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Laughon brought his
ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his
officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Born: January 29, 1911 at Princeton, West
Virginia
Home Town: Long Beach, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LAUTRUP, GEORGE W., JR.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to George W. Lautrup, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GAR (SS-206), on the TENTH War Patrol of that
submarine during the period 16 December 1943 to 9 February 1944, in enemy
controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound
judgment Lieutenant Commander Lautrup brought his ship safely back to port.
His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: March 18, 1912 at Yonkers, New York
Home Town: Yonkers, New York

LAWRENCE, JOHN CREIGSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Creig Lawrence, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting-Bombing Squadron TWELVE (VFB-12),
embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), on 7 April 1945, while deployed
over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at
all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.

LAWTON, ERNEST JAMES, JR.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ernest James Lawton, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TEN (VB-10),
attached to the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese
forces west of the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine
Sea, on 20 June 1944. By his airmanship and cool courage in the face of
tremendous odds, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lawton contributed materially to
the infliction of extensive and costly damage on the Japanese Fleet in this
decisive engagement and upheld the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.Born: October 14, 1917 at Lynn, Massachusetts
Home Town: Palmer, Massachusetts

LAZ, LEROY LESTERSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to LeRoy Lester Laz, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FOURTEEN (VB-14,
embarked from the U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), while participating in an aerial attack
against a Japanese task force on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte
Gulf in the Philippine Sea. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Laz's outstanding
courage, daring airmanship and disregard of personal safety was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: January 24, 1923 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Aurora, Illinois

LEAKE, THOMAS MURRAYSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Thomas Murray Leake, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked
from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in the attack on major units of the Japanese
fleet in Kure Harbor, Japan, consisting of battleships, carriers and heavy
cruisers, on 24 July 1945. His outstanding courage and determined skill were
at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.

*LECAPTAIN, BERNHARDCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Bernhard LeCaptain, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty
while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to the Second Battalion, Ninth
Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during the battle for Fonte Hill, Guam, on 25
July 1944. Pharmacist's Mate Second Class LeCaptain repeatedly risked his life
to minister to men wounded in battle. He unhesitatingly ran through heavy
machinegun fire 75 yards to a wounded Marine and then carefully used the scant
cover of a small parapet to protect the Marine. He himself remained exposed,
while administering first aid. Continuing his daring and gallant service, he
dragged another casualty to a nearby raving to provide comparative safety
during medical treatment. A few minutes later he braved the intense barrage to
rescue another wounded man who lay in the fire land. Although severely wounded
by rifle fire while caring for his patient, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class
LeCaptain continued his task. He attempted to rise from his kneeling position
only to collapse from extreme loss of blood and succumb before assistance
could reach him. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk
to his own life, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class LeCaptain undoubtedly saved
many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave
his life for his country.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 341 (August 1945)
Born: September 29, 1923 at Ladysmith, Wisconsin
Home Town: Glen Flora, Wisconsin

LECKLIDER, RUSSELL PAULCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Russell Paul Lecklider, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWO (VB-2), embarked from
the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during
the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942. In the face of heavy
anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition, Ensign Lecklider dived his
plane at an enemy Japanese aircraft carrier and released his bomb with calm
accuracy. By grim determination and expert appraisal of his objective, he
contributed materially to the high percentage of hits inflicted by his
particular squadron and assisted in ultimate destruction of the enemy carrier.
His individual action was an important factor in the collective success of
those United States Naval forces which engaged in the enemy in the Battle of
the Coral Sea. Ensign Lecklider's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and
devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 307 (October 1942)
Born: November 24, 1918 at Toledo, Ohio
Home Town: Toledo, Ohio

LEE, CLYDE JAMESONSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Clyde Jameson Lee, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane in action on 7 April 1945, while
deployed over Kyushu, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were
at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.

LEE, FITZHUGH(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Fitzhugh Lee, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Escort Carrier U.S.S. MANILA BAY (CVE-61), in a surface engagement with a
large task force of the Japanese Fleet near the Island of Samar in Philippine
waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. With outstanding
skill, Captain Lee maneuvered his under intense fire from enemy heavy forces
vastly superior in numbers, armament and armor. By his own courage and gallant
determination, he gave encouragement to his officers and men during this
crucial ordeal. His heroic actions have brought great distinction upon himself
and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
Navy of the United States.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 346 (January 1946)
Born: August 19, 1905 at Batanhgas, Philippine Islands
Home Town: Owings Mill, Maryland
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEE, FITZHUGH(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Fitzhugh Lee, Captain, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. MANILA BAY
(CVE-62), in action against the enemy on 5 January 1945, while deployed in the
Philippine Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.Born: August 19, 1905 at Batanhgas, Philippine
Islands
Home Town: Owings Mill, Maryland
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*LEE, JAMES LUTHER, JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to James Luther Lee, Jr., Pharmacist's Mate Third Class, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving
as a Medical Corpsman with the Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during
action against enemy forces at Piva Forks, Bougainville, Solomon Islands on 21
November 1943. Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Lee disregarded warnings that he
faced certain death and braved heavy fire in an attempt to reach an injured
Marine. Struck by bullets almost immediately, he dragged himself to the side
of the wounded man and was administering first aid when both he and his
patient were killed by machine-gun fire. By his courage and efforts in behalf
of others at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Lee
undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout
was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
He gallantly gave his life for his country.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 328 (July 1944)
Born: September 8, 1924 at Fiskville, Texas
Home Town: Round Rock, Texas

LEE, JAMES RICHARDCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James Richard Lee, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron TEN (VS-10), embarked
from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces in
the Solomon Islands Area during the period 13 to 15 November 1942. Lieutenant
Commander Lee lead his scouting squadron against heavy Japanese cruiser and
transport forces, launching numerous daring attacks against the enemy,
inflicting great losses in ships and men. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 316 (July 1943)
Born: December 1, 1905 at Greensboro, North Carolina
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

LEE, JOHN E.(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John E. Lee, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of the U.S.S. GRAYLING (SS-209), on the FOURTH, FIFTH and SIXTH War Patrols of
that submarine during the period 19 October 1942 to 25 April 1943, in enemy
controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. Through his experience and sound
judgment Lieutenant Commander Lee brought his ship safely back to port. His
conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: September 20, 1908 at Wilmington,
Delaware
Home Town: San Diego, California
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEE, JOHN E.(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to John E. Lee, Lieutenant Commander,
U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line
of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CROAKER (SS-246), on the
FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 19 July 1944 to 31 August
1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Through his experience
and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lee brought his ship safely back to
port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: September 20, 1908 at Wilmington,
Delaware
Home Town: San Diego, California
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEE, JOHN E.(Third Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold
Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to John E. Lee, Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CROAKER
(SS-246), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 23
September 1944 to 10 November 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East
China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lee
brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an
inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Born: September 20, 1908 at Wilmington,
Delaware
Home Town: San Diego, California
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEE, JOHN MARSHALLSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Marshall Lee, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as a Navigator embarked from the
Light Cruiser U.S.S. BOISE (CL-47), in action on the night of 11 and 12
October 1942, while deployed over Cape Esperance in the Solomon Islands. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: October 14, 1914 at Presidio, California
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

*LEE, WILLIS A., JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Willis A. Lee, Jr., Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
as Commander, Combat Division SIX, during an engagement with Japanese naval
forces near Savo Island on the night of 14 - 15 November, 1942. Rear Admiral
Lee sought out and engaged an overwhelmingly powerful foe and in the furious
battle that followed destroyed at least one Japanese battleship, three
cruisers, and one destroyer; damaging several others, and turning back the
remainder of the enemy fleet, thereby frustrating a formidable Japanese
offensive. Rear Admiral Lee's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to
duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of
these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval
Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 315 (June 1943)
Born: March 11, 1888 at Natlee, Kentucky
Home Town: Rock Island, Illinois

LEEDOM, MARVIN LEROYCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Marvin Leroy Leedom, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY (VT-20), embarked
from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces in
the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944.
Undaunted by intense enemy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Leedom pressed home
vigorous attacks upon an enemy battleship to score a direct hit upon the
hostile vessel and inflict severe damage. His courage, expert airmanship and
unwavering devotion to duty contributed to the success of his squadron in
fulfilling this dangerous mission and reflect the highest credit upon himself
and the United States Naval Service.

LEEKER, WALLACE F.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Wallace F. Leeker, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) embarked from the U.S.S.
LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25
October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands.
Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely
intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly
pressed home his attack. By his superb airmanship, daring combat tactics and
courage maintained in the face of tremendous opposition, Ensign Leeker
contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction
on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive battle, and his gallant devotion to
duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Born: May 2, 1921 at St. Louis, Missouri
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

LEEPER, CHARLES DAVIDCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles David Leeper, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY (VT-20), embarked
from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces in
the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944.
Undaunted by intense enemy antiaircraft fire, Ensign Leeper pressed home
vigorous attacks upon an enemy carrier, scoring a direct hit upon the hostile
vessel and rendering valiant assistance in sinking a major unit of the
Japanese Fleet. His courage, expert airmanship and unwavering devotion to duty
contributed to the success of his squadron in fulfilling this dangerous
mission and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States
Naval Service.Born: July 4, 1942 at St. Paul, Minnesota
Home Town: Parkersburg, West Virginia

LEGG, JAMES C.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James C. Legg, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Minesweeper U.S.S. VIERO (AM-52), during its heroic efforts at salvaging
the U.S.S. YORKTOWN during the Battle of Midway on 6 June 1942. His conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.

*LEHARDY, LOUIS M. (MIA)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Louis M. LeHardy, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
as Communications Officer on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO
(CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on
the night of 12 - 13 November, 1942. On this occasion the force to which
Lieutenant Commander LeHardy was attached engaged at close quarters and
defeated a superior enemy force, inflicting heavy damage upon them and
preventing the accomplishment of their intended mission. This daring and
intrepid attack, brilliantly executed, led to a great victory for his
country's forces. By his indomitable fighting spirit, expert seamanship, and
gallant devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander LeHardy contributed largely to
the success of the battle and upheld the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 312 (March 1943)
Born: February 18, 1905 at Savannah, Georgia
Home Town: Coronado, California

*LEMMON, ROLLA STUARTCitation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Rolla Stuart Lemmon, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron THREE (VF3),
embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy forces in
the Pacific War Area when his ship was attacked by eighteen Japanese bombing
planes on 20 February 1942. In the face of heavy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant
Lemmon intercepted a formation of nine enemy aircraft and succeeded in
shooting down one twin-engine bomber and aided in shooting down another.
Lieutenant Lemmon's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Born: November 28, 1915 at Peru, Kansas
Home Town: Long Beach, California

LENT, WILLIS A.(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Willis A. Lent, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRITON (SS-201), on the SECOND War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 25 January 1942 to 17 March 1942, in enemy
controlled waters of the East China Sea. Lieutenant Commander Willis A. Lent
took his ship on an aggressive patrol against the enemy in hazardous waters.
Despite Japanese air search he sank thousands of tons of Japanese shipping,
also returning to base without damage to his submarine or personnel. His
conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: January 5, 1904 at Dorchester,
Massachusetts
Home Town: West Roxbury, Massachusetts
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LENT, WILLIS A.(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Willis A. Lent, Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GRENADIER
(SS-210), on the SECOND and THIRD War Patrols of that submarine during the
period 12 April 1942 to 10 June 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the
Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant
Commander Lent brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout
was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: January 5, 1904 at Dorchester,
Massachusetts
Home Town: West Roxbury, Massachusetts
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEONARD, WILLIAM NICHOLAS(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William Nicholas Leonard, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane of Fighting Squadron FORTY-TWO (VF-42), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against the Japanese on 4 and 8 May 1942. On 4 May, while leader of a four-plane division engaged in protecting our own forces attacking Tulagi Harbor, he led his division in four successive strafing attacks against an enemy destroyer and, in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, succeeded in inflicting serious damage on the enemy vessel. On the same occasion he led his section in a determined attack against three enemy seaplane fighters, destroying two of them and assisting in the destruction of the third. On 8 May, while leader of the fighter escort for our own torpedo planes in an attack against an enemy carrier in the Coral Sea, he aggressively engaged the enemy fighter opposition, skillfully assisting in the destruction of two of the enemy planes. None of our torpedo planes were damaged during this attack which resulted in the sinking or severe damaging of the carrier. While returning from this mission he encountered an enemy torpedo plane returning to its carrier. He led his section in an attack against this plane and assisted in the prompt destruction of the enemy aircraft. Throughout these engagements Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Leonard displayed outstanding leadership, aggressiveness and judgment. His conduct was always unusually courageous and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.Born: January 12, 1916 at Douglas, Arizona
Home Town: St. Petersburg, Florida
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEONARD, WILLIAM NICHOLAS(Second Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to William Nicholas Leonard,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while piloting an airplane of Fighting Squadron THREE (VF-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942, during the "Air Battle of Midway,". Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Leonard was launched from his carrier to intercept an incoming attack by Japanese torpedo planes. He had been in the air only a few seconds when the enemy planes started their runs prior to dropping t heir torpedoes. With great skill, courage and determination, and despite the heavy anti-aircraft fire from his own ships, he pressed home repeated attacks against the enemy planes shooting down one and damaging another. His courage, determination and utter disregard for personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.Born: January 12, 1916 at Douglas, Arizona
Home Town: St. Petersburg, Florida
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEONARD, WILLIAM RICHARD, JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William Richard Leonard, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane and Strike Leader in Torpedo Squadron
SIXTEEN (VT-16), attached to the U.S.S. RANDOLPH, in action against enemy
Japanese forces in the vicinity of the Inland Sea, 24 July 1945. Fearlessly
disregarding intense enemy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Commander Leonard led
a flight of torpedo, dive and fighter-bombers in an attack on a hostile
battleship-carrier, personally scoring a direct hit and two near misses which
contributed materially to the ultimate sinking of the enemy capital ship. His
expert airmanship, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: April 25, 1916 at Seattle, Washington

LEPPLA, JOHN ARTHUR(First Award)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Arthur Leppla, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron TWO (VS-2), embarked from the U.S.S.
LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces over
enemy-controlled waters near Lae and Salamaua, New Guinea on 10 March 1942.
Ensign Leppla pressed home, in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, a
vigorous and determined dive bombing attack on enemy ships, sinking three of
them. His outstanding courage, daring airmanship and determined skill were at
all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Born: May 7, 1916 at Lima, Ohio
Home Town: Lima, Ohio
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEPPLA, JOHN ARTHUR(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to John Arthur Leppla, Ensign, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting
Squadron TWO (VS-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action
against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and
8 May 1942. His outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Born: May 7, 1916 at Lima, Ohio
Home Town: Lima, Ohio
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LERCH, ALFREDSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Alfred Lerch, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TEN (VF-10), embarked from the U.S.S.
INTREPID (CV-11), in action on 16 April 1945, while deployed over Okinawa in
the Ryukyu Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.

LESLIE, JOHN CARLETONSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Carleton Leslie, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20),
in action on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure Harbor, Japan. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LESLIE, MAXWELL FRANKLINCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Maxwell Franklin Leslie, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Bomber and Commanding Officer of Bombing Squadron THREE
(VB-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle
of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Lieutenant
Leslie led his squadron in a vigorous dive-bombing assault against Japanese
naval units, in the face of concentrated antiaircraft fire and powerful
fighter opposition, and pressed home his attack with courageous aggressiveness
and utter disregard for his own personal safety. His capable initiative and
inspiring leadership contributed to the high state of combat efficiency which
enabled his squadron to score at least five direct hits on an enemy aircraft
carrier. Lieutenant Commander Leslie's inspiring leadership and the valiant
devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the
outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the
United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: October 24, 1902 at Spokane, Washington
Home Town: Spokane, Washington

LEWELLEN, BAFFORD EDWARD(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Bafford Edward Lewellen, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. POLLACK (SS-180), on the NINTH War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 28 February 1944 to 11 April 1944, in enemy
controlled waters in the Bonin Islands area. Through his experience and sound
judgment Commander Lewellen brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct
throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: September 22, 1909 at Florence, Alabama
Home Town: Savannah, Missouri
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEWELLEN, BAFFORD EDWARD(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Bafford Edward Lewellen,
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TORSK
(SS-423), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 17 July
1945 to 15 August 1945, in enemy controlled waters in the Sea of Japan. On
this mission three enemy ships totaling 2,473 tons were sunk, and the U.S.S.
TORSK had the distinction of firing the last torpedo and sinking the last
Japanese combat ships of World War II. Through his experience and sound
judgment Commander Lewellen brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct
throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: September 22, 1909 at Florence, Alabama
Home Town: Savannah, Missouri
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEWIS, DONALDCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Donald Lewis, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TEN (VB-10), attached
to the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces west
of the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20
June 1944. Participating in a daring strike against the main Japanese Fleet,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lewis selected an enemy aircraft carrier as his
target and, skillfully maneuvering his plane to evade fierce enemy fighter
opposition, executed a dive-bombing attack on the enemy vessel and scored a
direct hit, thereby severely damaging the hostile ship. By his brilliant
airmanship, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty,
Lieutenant Lewis contributed materially to the success of our operations in
this historic engagement, and his great personal valor in the face of grave
peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Born: February 17, 1917 at New York, New York
Home Town: Haworth, New Jersey

*LEWIS, VICTOR ALAN (MIA)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Victor Alan Lewis (0-106252), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8),
embarked from Naval Air Station Midway during the "Air Battle of
Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 and 5 June 1942. In the first
attack against an enemy carrier of the Japanese invasion fleet, Ensign Lewis
pressed home his attack in the face of withering fire from enemy Japanese
fighters and anti-aircraft forces. Because of events attendant upon the Battle
of Midway, there can be no doubt that he gallantly gave up his life in the
service of his country. His courage and utter disregard for his own personal
safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: August 2, 1919 at Somerville, Massachusetts
Home Town: Randolph, Massachusetts

LEY, FREDERICK C., JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frederick C. Ley, Jr., Fireman Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
exceptional courage, presence of mind, and devotion to duty and disregard for
his personal safety while serving on board the Hospital Ship U.S.S. SOLACE
(AH-5), during the Japanese attack on the United States Pacific Fleet in Pearl
Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. When his boat was sent
alongside the blazing U.S.S. ARIZONA, Fireman Second Class Ley displayed
unusual disregard of his own life in diving overboard into water on which
there was a great amount of burning oil, to save an officer from drowning. The
conduct of Fireman Second Class Ley throughout this action reflects great
credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.Born: November 16, 1917 at New Haven,
Connecticut
Home Town: Stratford, Connecticut

LIGHTNER, EARL FREDCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Earl Fred Lightner, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron FIFTEEN (VT-15,
embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese
surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the
Philippine Islands on 24 October 1944. In the face of intense and accurate
antiaircraft fire from the whole enemy formation, under extremely hazardous
combat conditions, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lightner participated in a
bombing attack on a Japanese cruiser. Fearlessly maneuvering through withering
hostile fire of all calibers, he pressed home his attack and, by his expert
airmanship, obtained a direct hit which caused certain damage. His outstanding
courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: July 11, 1919 at New York, New York
Home Town: San Diego, California

LINDSAY, ELVIN LESTERCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Elvin Lester Lindsay, Commander [then Lieutenant], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and Flight Leader in Fighting Squadron
NINETEEN (VF-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to
strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of
Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Skillfully directing his escort group
on a strike against major enemy surface units, Lieutenant Commander Lindsay
boldly dived through the intense barrage of hostile antiaircraft fire and
expertly maneuvered his plane to deliver a bombing and strafing attack upon a
Japanese aircraft carrier, leaving her burning and in a sinking condition.
During the ensuing action, he valiantly led his fighters through antiaircraft
fire to deliver' a strafing raid upon a light cruiser. By his brilliant
airmanship, indomitable courage and inspiring leadership, Lieutenant Commander
Lindsay contributed materially to the infliction of overwhelming damage upon
the Japanese Fleet during this Battle. Commander Lindsay's outstanding
courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: June 25, 1920 at Potlatch, Idaho
Home Town: Palouse, Washington

*LINDSEY, EUGENE ELBERT (MIA)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Eugene Elbert Lindsey (0-061684), Lieutenant Commander, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving
as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Squadron Commander of
Torpedo Squadron SIX (VT-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6),
during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on
4 June 1942. Participating in a vigorous and intensive assault against the
Japanese invasion fleet, Lieutenant Commander Lindsey pressed home his attack
with relentless determination in the face of a terrific barrage of
anti-aircraft fire. The unprecedented conditions under which his squadron
launched its offensive were so exceptional that it is highly improbably the
occasion may ever recur where other pilots of the service will be called upon
to demonstrate an equal degree of gallantry and fortitude. His extreme
disregard of personal safety contributed materially to the success of our
forces and his loyal conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: July 2, 1905 at Sprague, Washington
Home Town: Honolulu, Hawaii

LINDSTROM, ROSS ALFREDCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ross Alfred Lindstrom, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Composite Squadron EIGHTY-ONE
(VC-81), embarked from the U.S.S. NATOMA BAY (CVE-62), while engaging a strong
enemy Japanese Fleet in the Battle of Samar Island off the east coast of the
Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lindstrom
carried out an unsupported torpedo attack against one of a group of enemy
heavy cruisers, in company with two other Torpedo Planes in the face of
withering antiaircraft fire from the hostile warships. The attack of these
planes inflicted serious damage on the leading cruiser at a time when their
shell fire was inflicting heavy damage on our escort carriers. His personal
heroism and devotion to duty contributed to the saving of our ships from
further serious damage and his conduct throughout the attack was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.Born: October 22, 1920 at Pocatello, Idaho
Home Town: Briartown, Oklahoma

LINE, JOHN HERMANCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Herman Line, Gunner's Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while
serving as a member of Naval Combat Demolition Unit TWENTY-TWO (NCDU-22),
during the amphibious assault on the Normandy Coast of France on 6 June 1944.
Gunner's Mate Second Class Line's Combat Demolitions Unit's mission was to
land on the beach at H-hour-plus-3-minutes minutes and blow a fifty yard gap
in the enemy-placed obstacles on the beach. Although half of the crew were
killed before their mission was completed, Gunner's Mate Second Class Line
with surviving members carried on and successfully completed their mission in
the face of heavy enemy gunfire. After successfully completing this mission,
Gunner's Mate Second Class Line directed incoming craft through the gap which
had been blown. He exposed himself on numerous occasions while administering
to and removing wounded personnel to places of safety. His display of courage
and devotion to duty on this occasion reflects the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 334 (January 1945)
Born: April 22, 1918 at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

LINN, JACK BIONSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Jack Bion Linn, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Plane, in action on 24 October 1944, during the
Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LINSDAY, BRUCE ALBERTSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Bruce Albert Linsday, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane deployed over Samar in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944, in the
Philippine Islands. Lieutenant Linsday's outstanding courage, daring
airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.Born: December 7, 1920 at Concord, Michigan
Home Town: Romeo, Michigan

LITTLE, EDWIN C.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edwin C. Little, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron SIXTEEN (VT-16), attached to the U.S.S.
RANDOLPH, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Inland Sea on 24 July
1945. Pressing home an aggressive attack against a hostile battleship-carrier
in the Kure Naval Base, Lieutenant Little succeeded in scoring a direct hit
and near misses despite intense and accurate antiaircraft fire, thereby
contributing materially to the destruction of the hostile vessel. His skillful
airmanship and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LITTLEFIELD, JACKSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Jack Littlefield, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-SEVEN (VT-87),
embarked from the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), in action on 24 July 1945, while
deployed over the Inland Sea of Japan. His outstanding courage and determined
skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.

*LIVESDAY, MELVIN G.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Melvin G. Livesday, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15),
embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese
surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the
Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Fearlessly pressing home his attack to
low altitude in the face of accurate and intense antiaircraft fire from the
formidable enemy disposition, Ensign Livesday succeeded in scoring a direct
hit upon a Japanese aircraft carrier of ZUIKAKU class, contributing to its
rapid sinking. Undaunted in the face of relentless, devastating antiaircraft
fire, he rendered gallant service during the bitterly fought engagement in
which all carriers, a light cruiser and a destroyer of the enemy's task force
were sunk and heavy bomb and torpedo damage inflicted on battleships and other
important naval units. By his daring airmanship, exceptional courage and
steadfast devotion to duty through a perilous assignment, Ensign Livesday
contributed materially to the sinking of this valuable enemy fighting unit and
upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

*LIVEZEY, JOHN C.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to John C. Livezey, Gunner, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron FIVE (VT-5), embarked
from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces at
Tulagi Harbor on 4 May 1942, and in the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May
1942. Gunner Livezey's spirit of determination and persistence while
participating in attacks, vigorously and persistently pressed home in the face
of heavy anti-aircraft fire, and on 8 May opposed also by enemy fighters,
resulted in the sinking of one enemy carrier and the sinking or damaging of
another carrier and at least eight other enemy vessels. Gunner Livezey's
conscientious devotion to duty and gallant self-command against formidable
odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: February 12, 1909 at New Castle, Indiana
Home Town: Leonia, New Jersey

LIVINGSTON, JAMES HAROLDSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James Harold Livingston, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 26 October 1944, while deployed over
the Sulu Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: August 11, 1922 at Marble Rock, Indiana
Home Town: Monroe, Michigan

LLOYD, RUDOLPHSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Rudolph Lloyd, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy
PBY Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron FIFTY-TWO (VP-52), in action against the
enemy on 10 and 14 December 1943 in the Solomon Islands. On 10 December,
despite adverse weather conditions, Lieutenant (j.g.) Lloyd led his crew in a
dangerous night attack against a large enemy freighter in the Bismarck
Archipelago. After dropping his bombs on target, he returned and made strafing
attacks until the enemy ship sank. On 14 December he again, in the face of
adverse and dangerous weather conditions, led his Bomber in a night attack
against Japanese ships in Kavieng Harbor, during which a bombing run was made
on what appeared to be a small enemy cruiser or large destroyer, during which
two hits were observed on the Japanese ship. Returning o make a strafing run,
Lieutenant (j.g.) Lloyd was forced by intense antiaircraft fire and enemy
fighters to break off the attack and return to base. His outstanding courage
and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: August 8, 1909 at Roanoke, Virginia
Home Town: Pensacola, Florida

*LLOYD, WILLIAM REESSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William Rees Lloyd, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession,
in action against the enemy on 5 and 6 May 1942, at Corregidor in the
Philippine Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.

LOCKE, CHARLES R.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles R. Locke, Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC), U.S. Navy, for
distinguished service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage,
and disregard of personal danger while serving as Medical Officer with the
FOURTH Marine Division, at Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, on 20 February
1945. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to duty,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Locke saved many lives from certain death. His
professional ability, courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the
highest traditions of the Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.

LOCKE, CHESTER M.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Chester M. Locke, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this profession
as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. HAZELWOOD (DD-531), in
operations against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa on 29
April 1945. When a suicide plane demolished the superstructure and severely
damaged the forward fire room, emergency diesel room and I.C. room on his
vessel, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Locke immediately assumed command of the
stricken ship and, braving exploding ammunition and fires, valiantly directed
salvage operation, thereby saving the Hazelwood from certain destruction. His
direct actions, resourceful leadership and determined devotion to duty upheld
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: at Lockeford, California
Home Town: Lodi, California

LODHOLZ, ROYCE P.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Royce P. Lodholz, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane in Composite Squadron SEVENTY-SIX (VC-76), embarked from the
U.S.S. PETROF BAY (CVE-80), and deployed over Samar in the Philippine Islands,
in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on
25 October 1944. Ensign Lodholz boldly attacked a large task force of the
Japanese Imperial Navy in a strike made without the aid of surface craft and
in the face of an intense barrage of anti-aircraft fire and with the knowledge
that his fuel supply was insufficient to carry him safely back to base. He
drove home his attack with such grim determination and utter disregard for his
personal safety that it resulted in severe damage upon capital ships of the
Japanese Imperial Navy, and materially contributed to the retreat of the enemy
fleet. Ensign Lodholz' outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 340 (July 1945)
Born: June 5, 1924 at Munising, Michigan
Home Town: Negaunee, Michigan

*LOGAN, SAMUEL MOORE (MIA)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Samuel Moore Logan (0-111646), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
while serving on board the U.S.S. HARDER (SS-257), on the FOURTH War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 29 March 1944 to 20 April 1944, in enemy
controlled waters of the Pacific Area. On 1 April 1944, during that war
patrol, Lieutenant Logan unhesitatingly volunteered to lead a rescue team
dispatched from the HARDER to an enemy held island to rescue a naval aviator
whose plane had been shot down. Although fully aware that unforeseen
circumstance might result in the forced abandonment of the entire party,
Lieutenant Logan courageously fought his way through the breakers and a coral
reef despite dangerous hostile sniper fire and locating the exhausted aviator,
succeeded in bringing him back to HARDER. His conduct throughout this action
reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: November 27, 1918 at Owensboro, Kentucky
Home Town: Owensboro, Kentucky

LONG, GEORGE L.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to George L. Long, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a
Medical Corpsman with the FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy
Japanese forces at Iwo Jima in the Volcano islands, on 26 February 1945. By
his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life,
Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Long undoubtedly saved many lives, and his
steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LOONEY, FOSTER E.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Foster E. Looney, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWO (VB-2), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET
(CV-12), in action against the enemy fleet in the vicinity of the East
Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. By his brilliant airmanship, aggressive
fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Ensign Looney contributed
materially to the success of our operations in this historic engagement, and
his great personal valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: November 29, 1922 at Fort Worth, Texas
Home Town: Fort Worth, Texas

LOONEY, MILTON PARKERCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Milton Parker Looney, Fire Controlman Second Class, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while
serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. NORTHAMPTON (CA-26), after the
torpedoing of his ship in enemy-controlled waters during the Battle of
Tassafaronga on the night of 30 November 1942. Organizing and directing a
section of men for fighting the flames, Fire Controlman Second Class Looney
labored tirelessly in the midst of exploding ammunition and in immediate
proximity to the blaze until he had the fire on the boat deck under control.
When the water supply eventually failed, he was attracted by cries of distress
from a wounded shipmate in the mainmast and, while attempting to reach him by
means of a line-throwing gun, was injured by a shell fragment which lodged in
his arm. The conduct of Fire Controlman Second Class Looney throughout this
action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 316 (July 1943)
Born: October 23, 1920 at Branchville, Texas
Home Town: Bryan, Texas

LORENZ, EDWARD GEORGECitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward George Lorenz (301497), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in action in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber, in action on 18
July 1945, during an attack against an enemy battleship in the Tokyo Bay Area.
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lorenz skillfully and courageously pressed his
attack home in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire scoring a
hit on the target which contributed materially to the severe damage suffered
by the warship. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Com2ndCarTaskForPac File C2CTF/P15/814, Serial
01863 (18 September 1945)
Born: February 11, 1924 at Bowman, North Dakota
Home Town: Bowman, North Dakota
Awards: Navy Cross (WWII), 2@ Air Medals

LORENZ, JOHN D.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John D. Lorenz, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Battery Officer on
board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the Battle of Midway on 6 June 1942. His conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.Born: January 4, 1919 at Butte, Montana
Home Town: Gervais, Oregon

*LOUD, WAYNE R.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Wayne R. Loud, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Task
Group 77.6, in action against the enemy from 3 through 9 January 1945, at
Lingayen Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

*LOUGH, JOHN CADY (MIA)Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to John Cady Lough (0-099984), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron SIX (VS-6),
embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of
Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Participating
in a devastating assault against a Japanese invasion fleet, Ensign Lough, with
fortitude and resolute devotion to duty, pressed home his attacks in the face
of a formidable barrage of anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition.
His gallant perseverance and utter disregard for his own personal safety were
important contributing factors to the success achieved by our forces and were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life for his country.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: November 22, 1915 at Geneseo, Illinois
Home Town: Geneseo, Illinois

LOUGHLIN, CHARLES ELLIOTT(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles Elliott Loughlin, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. QUEENFISH (SS-393), on the FIRST War Patrol
of that submarine during the period 4 August 1944 to 3 October 1944, in enemy
controlled waters of the Luzon Strait, in the Philippine Islands. Through his
experience and sound judgment Commander Loughlin brought his ship safely back
to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: February 19, 1910 at Wilmington, North
Carolina
Home Town: North Wales, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LOUGHLIN, CHARLES ELLIOTT(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Charles Elliott Loughlin,
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. QUEENFISH
(SS-393), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 4
August 1944 to 3 October 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China
Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Loughlin brought his
ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his
officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Born: February 19, 1910 at Wilmington, North
Carolina
Home Town: North Wales, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LOVERIN, IRA G.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ira G. Loverin, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane in Composite Squadron SEVENTY-SIX (VC-76), embarked from the
U.S.S. PETROF BAY (CVE-80), and deployed over Samar in the Philippine Islands,
in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on
23 October 1944. Ensign Loverin participated in the first strike of the day on
the enemy task force off the coast of Samar, and executed bold strafing
attacks in the face of intense antiaircraft fire in a desperate attempt to
render aid to our own CVEs which were being shelled by the Japanese ships.
Although he knew that his .50 caliber guns could do little damage to the armor
of the capital ships, he made his runs with courage and audacity. His conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 341 (August 1945)
Born: August 12, 1922 at Sanger, California
Home Town: Huntington Park, California

LOWE, EDWARD S.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward S. Lowe, Lieutenant Commander (MC), U.S. Navy, for distinguished
service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of
personal danger while serving as Senior Medical Officer on board the Heavy
Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), after that vessel was severely damaged
during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night
of 12 - 13 November 1942. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion
to duty, Lieutenant Commander Lowe saved many lives. His professional ability,
courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the
Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.Born: May 23, 1906 at Colorado Springs,
Colorado
Home Town: Costa Mesa, California

LOWE, FRANK L.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frank L. Lowe, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. PENSACOLA (CA-24), during the action in
enemy-controlled waters at the Battle of Tassafaronga on the night of 30
November 1942. Captain Lowe fought his ship with skill and determination,
contributing in large measure to the destruction of all enemy vessels within
gun range. His inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his
command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital
missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 319 (October 1943)
Born: April 17, 1891 at Monticello, Arkansas
Home Town: Pine Bluff, Arkansas

*LOWE, HARRY JAMES, JR.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Harry James Lowe, Jr., Gunner's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy
while serving as a Gunner aboard the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO
(CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island in
the Solomons on the night of on November 12 and 13 1942. His grim perseverance
and relentless devotion to duty in the face of certain death were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly
gave up his own life in the defense of his country.Born: February 6, 1922 at Paducah, Kentucky
Home Town: Paducah, Kentucky

LOWRANCE, VERNON L.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Vernon L. Lowrance, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. KINGFISH (SS-234), on a War Patrol of that
submarine in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his
experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lowrance brought his ship
safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers
and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.Born: April 19, 1909 at Catawba, North
Carolina
Home Town: New London, Connecticut

LOWRY, FRANK J.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frank J. Lowry, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. MINNEAPOLIS (CA-36), during operations in Coral Sea
on 7 and 8 May 1942. Under Captain Lowry's skillful direction, his ship during
this action inflicted considerable damage on the enemy Japanese and rendered
vital protection to the aircraft carrier to which it was assigned. Captain
Lowry's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command
contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital
missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: February 15, 1888 at Cresco, Iowa
Home Town: Cresco, Iowa

*LOY, JACKSON KIETHSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Jackson Kieth Loy, Gunner's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while
serving as a Gunner aboard the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38),
during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island in the
Solomons on the night of on November 12 and 13 1942. His grim perseverance and
relentless devotion to duty in the face of certain death were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave
up his own life in the defense of his country.Born: April 29, 1922 at Effingham, Illinois
Home Town: Effingham, Illinois

LUDWIG, DAVID W.Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to David W. Ludwig, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting-Bombing Squadron SIX
(VFB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in the attack on major
units of the Japanese fleet in Kure Harbor, Japan, consisting of battleships,
carriers and heavy cruisers, on 24 July 1945. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LUEDMANN, CARL FREDERICKSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Carl Frederick Luedmann, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron ONE (VT-1), embarked
from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action against the enemy fleet west of
the Marianas Islands during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea on 20 June
1944. By his brilliant airmanship, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering
devotion to duty, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Luedmann contributed materially to
the success of our operations in this historic engagement, and his great
personal valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: June 11, 1919 at Indianapolis, Indiana
Home Town: Indianapolis, Indiana

LURVEY, DON DEXTERSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Don Dexter Lurvey, Aviation Chief Machinist's Mate, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Gunner
of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron ONE HUNDRED ONE (VP-101), Patrol
Wing TEN (PatWing-10), in action against enemy Japanese naval forces located
near Jolo, in the Philippine Islands, on the morning of 27 December 1941.
Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class Lurvey saved his co-pilot from drowning
after their airplane crashed into the sea. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 304 (July 1942)
Born: July 13, 1908 at Draent Center, Massachusetts
Home Town: San Diego, California

LUTHER, EARL FRANCIS, JR.Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Earl Francis Luther, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THIRTEEN
(VB-13), embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy
Japanese forces in the Sibuyan Sea during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25
October 1944. In the face of continuous and intense anti-aircraft fire and
enemy air opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Luther pressed home a
determined dive bombing attack on a hostile aircraft carrier and, accurately
releasing his bomb load at perilously low altitude, scored a direct hit which
contributed to its sinking. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting
spirit and cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, Luther contributed immeasurably to the extensive and costly damage
inflicted on the Japanese fleet in this vital war area. His conduct throughout
this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: June 25, 1921 at Warren, Rhode Island
Home Town: Warren, Rhode Island

LYNCH, FRANK C.(First Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frank C. Lynch, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Executive Officer of the U.S.S. HARDER (SS-257), on the FIFTH War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 26 May 1944 to 21 June 1944, in enemy
controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. Through his experience and sound
judgment Lieutenant Commander Lynch helped bring his ship safely back to port.
His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: October 27, 1914 at Benedict, Kansas
Home Town: Benedict, Kansas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LYNCH, FRANK C.(Second Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Frank C. Lynch, Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HADDO
(SS-255), on the EIGHTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 28
October 1944 to 27 December 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific
War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lynch
brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an
inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.Born: October 27, 1914 at Benedict, Kansas
Home Town: Benedict, Kansas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LYNCH, FRANK C.(Third Award)Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold
Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Frank C. Lynch, Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HADDO
(SS-255), on the NINTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 16 May
1945 to 16 July 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea.
Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lynch brought
his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his
officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.Born: October 27, 1914 at Benedict, Kansas
Home Town: Benedict, Kansas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LYNCH, JOHN JOSEPHCitation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Joseph Lynch, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron EIGHT (VB-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET
(CV-8), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese
forces on 6 June 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal safety and in
the face of intense antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Lynch participated in
determined and effective bombing and strafing attacks on fleeing enemy
Japanese forces, obtaining a successful hit on one of the enemy ships. His
airmanship, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 316 (July 1943)
Born: October 21, 1911 at South Boston, Massachusetts
Home Town: Ferguson, Missouri

LYNCH, KEVIN PATRICKSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Kevin Patrick Lynch, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane deployed over Samar in action against
enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944, in
the Philippine Islands. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lynch's outstanding courage,
daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.Born: January 25, 1922 at Dodgeville,
Wisconsin
Home Town: New Glarus, Wisconsin

LYNCH, RICHARD BARRSynopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Richard Barr Lynch, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. SKATE (SS-305), on the SEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 11 April 1945 to 4 July 1945, in enemy controlled waters in the Sea
of Japan. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Lynch brought
his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his
officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.